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RECORD ii 



•^ffi^ "^ ,„ ,, 

—OF— 

STARK COUNTY, 



CONTAINING 



Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, 

TOGETHER WITH BIOGRAPHIES AND PORTRAITS OF ALL THE 

® Presidents of the United states. # 



CHICAGO: 



/ 



1892. 




f 







/?/ 



pF(Ep/^?E. 




-it^ -H>-t- "^fe^ 

1 1 IE greatest of English liistorians, Macaulay, aud one of the most brilliant writers of 
the present century, has said: "The history of a country is best told in a record of the 
lives of its peoi^le." In conformity with this idea the Poktrait and Biograpiikai. 
Record Qf this county has been prepared. Instead of going to musty records, and 
taking therefrom dry statistical matter that can bo appreciated by but few, our 
corps of writers have gone to the people, the men and women who have, by then- 
en terprise and industry, brought the county to rank second, to none among those 
comprising this great and noljle State, and from their lips have the story of their life 
struggles. No more interesting or instructive matter could be presented to an intelli- 
gent public. In this volume will be found a record of many whose lives are worthy the 
imitation of coming generations. It tells how some, commencing life in poverty, by 
industry and economy have accumulated wealth. It tells how others, with limited 
advantages for securing an education, have become learned men and women, with an 
influence extending throughout the length and breadth of the land. It tells of men who 
have risen from the lower walks of life to eminence as statesmen, and whose names have 
become famous. It tells of those in every walk in life who have striven to succeed, and 
records how that success has usually crowned their efforts. It teUs also of manj^, very 
many, who, not seeking the applause of the world, have pursued "the even tenor of their way," content 
to have it said of them as Christ said of the woman performing a deed of mercy — "they have done what 
they coidd." It tells how that many in the pride and strength of young manhood left the plow and the 
anvil, the lawyer's office and the counting-room, left every trade and profession, and at their country's 
call went forth valiantly "to do or die," and how through their efforts the Union was restored and peace 
once more reigned in the land. In the life of every man and of every woman is a lesson that should not 
be lost upon those who follow after. 

Coming generations will appreciate this volume and preserve it as a sacred treasure, from the fact 
that it contains so much that would never find its way into public records, and which would otherwise be 
inaccessible. Great care has been taken in the compilation of the work and every opportunity possible 
given to those represented to insure correctness in what has been written, and the puljlishers flatter them- 
selves tliat they give to their readers a work with few errors of consequence. In addition to the biograpb 
ical sketches, portraits of a number of representative citizens are given. 

The faces of some, and biographical sketches of many, will be missed in this volume. For this the 
publishers are not to blame. Not having a proper conception of the work, some refused to give the 
information necessary to compile a sketch, while others were indifferent. Occasionally some member of 
the family would oppose the enterprise, and on account of such opposition the support of the interested 
one would be withheld. In a few instances men could never be found, though repeated calls were made 
at their residence or place of business. 

Novenihcr, \KI-2. CHAPMAN BROS. 




(Elf 

5^y 








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OF THE 






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FIRST-F RESIDENT. 




,•->,:•.« .••,^^?V5jji<sgj,<^ 



a ®EOBBE 1^ASHINB1'©N 




y^ljorn in Westmorland Co., Va., 
^J Feb. 2 2, 1732. His parents 
were Augustine and Mary 
(Ball) Washington. The family 
/^ to which he belonged has not 
/ been satisfactorily traced in 
England. His great-grand- 
father, John Washington, em- 
igrated to Virginia about 1657, 
and became a prosperous 
" planter. He had t%vo sons, 
Lawrence and John. The 
former married Mildred Warner 
and had three children, John, 
Augustine and Mildred. Augus- 
tine, the father of (ieorge, first 
married Jane Butler, who bore 
him four children, two of whom, 
Lawrence and Augustine, reached 

f maturity. Of six children by his 
second marriage, George was the 
eldest, the others being Betty, 
i Samuel, John Augustine, Charles 

and Mildred. 
Augustine Washington, the father of George, died 
in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his 
eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on 
the Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon, 
and to George he left the parental residence. George 
received only such education as the neighborhood 
schools afforded, save for a short time after he left 
school, wlien he received private instruction in 
niathemat'cs. His spelling v/as rather defective. 



Remarkable stories are told of his great ))hysica: 
strength and development at an early age. He wa.s 
an acknowledged leader among his companions, and 
was early noted for that nobleness of character, fair- 
ness and veracity which characterized his whole life. 

When George was 14 years old he had a desire to go to 
sea, and a midshipman's warrant was secured for him, 
but through the opposition of his mother the idea was 
abandoned. Two years later he was appointed 
surveyor to the immense estate of Lord Fairfax. In 
this business he spent three years in a rough frontier 
life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very 
essential to him. In 175 t, though only 19 years of 
age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of 
major in the Virginia militia, then being trained for 
active service against the French and Indians. Soon 
after this he sailed to the West Indies with his brother 
Lawrence, who went there to restore his health. They 
soon returned, and in the summer of 1752 Lawrence 
died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter 
who did not long survive him. On her demise the 
estate of Mount Vernon was given to George, 

Upon the arrival of Robert Dinwiddle, as Lieuten- 
ant-Governor of Virginia, in 1752, the militia was 
reorganized, and the province divided into four mili- 
tary districts, of which the northern was assigned to 
Washington as adjutant general. Shortly after this 
a very perilous mission was assigned him and ac- 
cepted, which others had refused. This was to pro- 
ceed to the French post near Lake Erie in North- 
western Pennsylvania. The distance to be traversed 
was between 500 and 600 miles. Winter was at hand, 
and the journey was to be made without military 
escort, through a territory occupied by Indians. The 



GEORGE WASHINGTON. 



irip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near 
losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished 
a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment 
of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com- 
mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was 
commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was 
then begun against the French and Indians, in which 
Washington took a most important part. In the 
memorable event of July 9, 1755, known as Brad- 
dock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer 
of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the 
day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock 
were disabled early in the action, and Washington 
alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter 
to his brother he says : "I had four bullets through 
my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped 
unhurt, though death was levelin'i my companions 
on every side." An Indian sharpshooter said he was 
not born to be killed by a bullet, for he had taken 
direct aim at him seventeen times, and failed to hit 
him. 

After having been five years in the military service, 
and vainly sought promotion in the royal army, he 
took advantage of the fall of Fort Duquesne and the 
expulsion of the French from the valley of the Ohio, 
CO resign his commission. Soon after he entered the 
Legislature, where, although not a leader, he took an 
active and important part. January 17, 1759, he 
married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy 
widow of John Parke Custis. 

When the Britisli Parliament had closed the port 
~jf Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces 
that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all." 
It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Con- 
gress of all the colonies was called to meet at Phila- 
dcl[)hia,Sept. 5, 1774, to secure their common liberties, 
peaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Wash- 
ington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, 1775, the 
Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of 
England were plainly apparent. The battles of Con- 
cord and Lexington had been fought. Among the 
first acts of this Congress was the election of a com- 
mander-in-chief of tlie colonial forces. This high and 
responsible office was conferred upon Washington, 
who was still a member of the Congress. He accepted 
it on June 19, but upon the express condition that he 
receive no salary. He would keep an exact account 
of expenses and expect Congress 10 pay them and 
nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to 
trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the 
fortunes and liberties of the people of this country 
were so long confided. The war was conducted by 
him under ever)' possible disadvantage, and while his 
forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every 
obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion 
and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest 
nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 1783, Washington, in 
.1 parting address of surpassing beauty, resigned his 



commission as commander-in-chief of the army iw 
to the Continental Congress sitting at Annapolis. H^ 
retired immediately to Mount Vernon and resumed 
his occupation as a farmer and planter, shunning all 
connection with public life. 

In Febriiary,i789, Washington was unanimously 
elected President. In his presidential career he was 
subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a new 
government ; trials from lack of confidence on the part 
of other governments; trials from want of harmony 
between the different sections of our own country; 
trials from the impoverished condition of the country, 
owing to the war and want of credit; trials from the 
beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His 
clear judg.iient could discern the golden mean; and 
while perhaps this alone kept our government from 
sinking at the very outset, it left him exposed to 
attacks from both sides, which were often bitter and 
very annoying. 

At the expiration of his first term he was unani- 
mously re-elected. At the end of this term many 
were anxious that he be re-elected, but he absolutely 
refused a third nomination. On the fourth of March, 
1797, at the expiraton of his second term as Presi- 
dent, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there 
his few remaining yeais free from the annoyances of 
public life. Later in the year, however, his repose 
seemed likely to be interrupted by war with France. 
At the prospect of such a war he was again urged to 
take command of the armies. He chose his sub- 
ordinate officers and left to them the charge of mat- 
ters in the field, which he superintended from his 
home. In accepting the command he made the 
reservation that he was not to be in the field until 
it was necessary. In the midst of these preparations 
his life was suddenly cut off. December 12, he took 
a seveie cold from a ride in the rain, which, settling 
in h's throat, (jroduced inflammation, and terminated 
fatally on the night of the fourteenth. On the eigh- 
teenth his body was borne wi'h military honors to its 
final resting place, and interred in the family vault at 
Mount Vernon. 

Of the character of Washington it is impossible to 
speak but in terms of the highest respect and ad- 
miration. The more we see of the operations of 
our government, and the more deeply we feel the 
difficulty of uniting all opinions in a common interest, 
the more highly we must estimate the force of his tal- 
ent and character, which have bc^n able to challenge 
the reverence of all parties, and principles, and na- 
tions, and to win a fame as extended as the limits 
of the globe, and which we cannot but believe will 
be as lasting as the existence of man. 

The person of Washington was unusally tan, erect 
and well proportioned. His muscular strength was 
great. His features were of a beautiful symmetn'. 
He commanded respect without any appearance o\ 
haughtiness, and ever serious without iN^ini; dull. 




J(^n Jr//m^ 



SECOND FUES/DENT. 









'* Ilk. "^ '^^U'ii'; 




15^74"^ '^' 



^\| OHN ADAMS, the second 
^ ^ President and the first Vice- 
President of the United States, 
was born in Braintree ( now 
Quincy ),Mass., and about ten 
miles from Boston, Oct. 19, 
1735. His great-grandfather, Henry 
.^dams, emigrated from England 
about 1640, with a family of eight 
sons, and settled at Braintree. The 
parents of John were John and 
Susannah (Boylston) Adams. His 
father was a farmer of limited 
means, to which he added the bus- 
iness of shoemaking. He gave his 
eldest son, John, a classical educa- 
tion at Harvard College. John 
graduated in 1755, and at once took charge of the 
school in Worcester, Mass. This he found but a 
'school of affliction," from which he endeavored to 
gain relief by devoting himself, in addition, to the 
study of law. For this purixise he placed himself 
under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He 
had thought seriously of the clerical profession 
but seems to have been turned from this by what he 
termed " the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun- 
jils, of diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature,'' 
of the operations of which he had been a witness in 
his native town. He was well fitted for the legal 
profession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being 
ready and fluent of speech, and having quick percep- 
tive powers. He gradually gained practice, and in 
1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister, 
and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his 
marriage, (17(15), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa- 
*jon turned him from law to politics. He took initial 
steps toward holding, .1 town meeting, and the resplM' 




'^''^^TF^s 



tions he offered on the subject became very jxjpulai 
throughout the Province, and were adopted word for 
word by over forty different towns. He moved to Bos 
ton in 1768, and became one of the most courageous 
and prominent advocatesof the popular cause, and 
was chosen a member of the General Court (the Leg- 
lislature) in 1770. 

Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegate.s 
from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress, 
which met in 1774. Here he distinguished himselt 
by his capacity for business and for debate, and ad- 
vocated the movement for independence against the 
majority of the members. In May, 1776, he moved 
and carried a resolution in Congress that the Colonies 
should assume the duties of self-government. He 
was a prominent member of the committee of iive 
appointed June 11, to prepare a declaration of inde- 
pendence. This article was drawn by Jefferson, but 
on Adams devolved the task of battling it through 
Congress in a three days debate. 

On the day after the Declaration of Independence 
was passed, while his soul was yet warm with th? 
glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife 
which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated 
by the spirit of prophecy. "Yesterday," he says, "the 
greatest question was decided that ever was debated 
in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or wiL 
be decided among men. A resolution was passed 
without one dissenting colony, ' that these United 
States are, and of right ought to be, free and inde- 
pendent states. ' The day is passed. The fourth of 
July, 1776, will be a memorable e[)och in the history 
of America. I am apt to believe it will be celebrated 
by succeeding generations, as the great anniversaryj 
festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day ofi 
deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty 
God. It ought to be solemnized with pomp, shows- 



JOHN ADAMS. 



games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations 
Irom one end of the continent to the other, from this 
time forward for ever. You will think me transixirted 
with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of 
the toil, and blood and treasure, that it will cost to 
maintain this declaration, and support and defend 
the-^e States; yet, through all the gloom, I can see the 
rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is 
wjrth more than all the means; and that posterity 
will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I 
hope we shall not." 

In November, 1777, Mr. Adams was appointed a 
deiiegate to France and to co-operate with Bemjamin 
Franklin and Arthur Lee, who were then in Paris, in 
the endeavor to obtain assistance in arms and money 
from the French Government. This was a severe trial 
to his patriotism, as it separated him from his home, 
compelled him to cross the ocean in winter, and ex- 
posed him to great peri! of capture by the British cruis- 
ers, who were seeking him. He left France June 17, 
1779. In September of the same year he was again 
cliosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readi- 
ness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce 
with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet 
might be found willing to listen to such pvoiX)sels. He 
sailed for France in November, from there he went to 
Holland, where he negotiated important loans and 
formed important commercial treaties 

Finally a treaty of peace with England was signed 
Jan. 21, 1 7 S3. The re-action from the excitement, 
toil and anxiety through which Mr. Adams had passed 
threw him into a fever. After suffering from a con- 
tinued fever and becoming feeble and emaciated he 
was advised to goto England to drink the waters of 
B.ith. \Vhile in England, still drooping anddesix)nd- 
ing, he received dispatches from his own government 
urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to 
negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was 
delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through 
storm, on sea, on horseback and foot,hemade the trip. 

February 24, 1785; Congress appointed Mr. Adams 
envoy to the Court of St. James. Here he met face 
to face the King of England, who had so long re- 
garded him as a traitor. As England did not 
condescend to appoint a minister to the United 
States, and as Mr. Adams felt that he was accom- 
plishing but little, he sought isermission to return to 
,nis own country, where he arrived in June, 1788. 

When Washington was first chosen President, John 
.\dams, rendered illustiious by his signal services at 
home and abroad, was chosen Vice President, .\gain 
at the second election of Washington as President, 
Adams was chosen Vice President. In 1796, Wash- 
ington retired from public life, and Mr. Adams was 
elected President,though not without much opposition. 
Serving in this office four years, he was succeeded by 
Mr. Jefferson, his opponent in politics. 

While Mr. Adams was Vice President the great 



French Revolution shook the continent of Euroi'e, 
and it was upon this point which he was atissujwnh 
the majority of his countrymen led by Mr. Jefl'erson. 
Mr. Adams felt no sympathy with the French people 
in their struggle, for he had no confidence in their 
jx)wer of self-government, and he utterly abhored the 
classof atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it. 
On the otherhand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly 
enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence or- 
iginated the alienation between these distinguished 
men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organ- 
ized, Adams at the head of the one whose sympathies 
were with England and Jefferson led the otlier in 
sympathy with France. 

The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more 
moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the 
old age of Mr. Adams. The violence of party feeling 
had died away, and he had begun to receive that just 
appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till 
after death. No one could look upon his venerable 
form, and think of what he had done and suffered, 
and how he had given up all the prime and strength 
of his life to the public good, without the deepest 
emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar 
good fortune to witness the complete success of the 
institution which he had been so active in creating and 
supiX)rting. In 1824, his cup of happiness was filled 
to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest 
station in the gift of the people. 

The fourth of July, 1826, which completed the half 
century since the signing of the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, arrived, and there were but three of the 
signers of that immortal instrument left upon the 
earth to hail its morning light. .And, as it is 
well known, on that day two of these finished their 
earthly pilgrimage, a coincidence so remarkable as 
to seem miraculous. For a few days before Mr. 
Adams had lieen rapidly failing, and on the morning 
of the fourth he found hmiself too weak to rise from 
his i)ed. On being requested to name a toast for the 
customary celebration of the day, he exclaimed " In- 
dependence FOREVER." When the day was ushered 
in, by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannons, 
he was asked by one of his ;;ttendants if he knew 
what day it was? He replied, "O yes; it is the glor- 
ious fourih of July — God bless it — God bless you all." 
In the course of the day he said, "It is a great and 
glorious day." The last words he uttered were, 
"Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, re- 
signed his spirit into the hands of his God. 

The personal appearance and manners of Mr. 
Adams were not particularly prepossessing. His face, 
as his portrait manifests,was intellectual ard expres- 
sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and \\'\ 
manners were frequently abrupt and uncourteous. 
He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, nor 
the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked 
the mannerg and address of Jefferson. 



TlIIKl) PRESIDENT. 



a? 







irinOMAS JEFIPBMS®Wc 




HOMAS JEFFERSON was 

jorn April 2, 1743, at Shad- 
well, Albermarle county, Va. 
His jiarents were Peter and 
Jane ( Randolph) Jefferson, 
thu former a native of Wales, 
and the latter born in Lon- 
don. To them were born six 
daughters and two sons, of 
whom Thomas was the elder. 
When 14 years of age his 
father died. He received a 
most liberal education, hav- 
ing been kept diligently at scliool 
from the time he was five years of 
age. In 1760 he entered William 
end Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat 
of the Colonial Court, and it was the obodeof fashion 
a.id splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17 
years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine 
horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he 
•was earnestly devoted to his studies, andirreproacha- 
able in his morals. It is strange, however, under 
such infliiences,that he was not ruined. In the sec- 
ond year of his college course, moved by some un- 
explained inward impulse, he discarded his horses, 
society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had 
previously given much time. He often devoted fifteen 
hours a day to haid study, allowing himself for ex- 
ercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out 
of the city and back again. He thus attained very 
high intellectual culture, alike excellence in philoso- 
phy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and 
(jreek autiiors he read with facility. A more finished 
scholar has seldom gone fortli from college halls; and 



there was not to be found, perhaps, in all Virginia, a 
more pureminded, upright, gentlemanly young man. 

Immediately upon leaving college he began the 
study of law. For the short time he continued in the 
practice of his profession he rose rapidly and distin- 
guished himself by his energy and accuteness as a 
lawyer. But the times called for greater action. 
The policy of England had awakened the spirit of 
resistance of the American Colonies, and the enlarged 
views which Jefferson had ever entertained, soon led 
him into active political life. In 1769 he was chosen 
a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses In 
1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beauti- 
ful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow 

Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shad well, th^re 
was a majestic swell of land, ca'Ied Montigello, which 
commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and 
beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new 
home; and here he reared a mansion of modest yet 
elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon 
became the most distinguished resort in our land. 

In 1775 he was sent to the Cdonial Congress, 
where, though a silent member, his abilities as a 
writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he 
was placed uiwn a number of important committees, 
and was chairman of the one appointed for the draw- 
ing up of a declaration of independence. This com- 
mittee consisted of Thouias Jefferson, John Adams, 
Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. 
Livingston. Jefferson, as chairman, was appointed 
to draw up the paper. Franklin and Adams suggested 
a few verbal changes before it was submitted to Con- 
gress. On June 28, a few slight changes were made 
in it by Congress, and it was passed and signed July 
4, 1776. What must have been the feelings of that 



28 



THOMAS JEFFERSON. 



man — what the emotions that swelled his breast — 
who was charged with the preparation of that Dec- 
laration, which, while it made known the wrongs of 
America, was also to publish her to the world, free, 
Boverign and independent. It is one of the most re- 
markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort 
of the mind of its author exist, that alone would be 
sufficient to stamp his name with immortality. 

In 1779 Mr. Jefferson was elected successor to 
Patrick Henry, ^s Governor of Virginia. At one time 
the British officer, Tarleton, sent a secret expedition to 
Moniicello, to capture the Governor. Scarcely five 
minutes elapsed after tlie hurried escape of Mr. Jef- 
ferson and his family, ere his mansion was in posses- 
sion of the British troops. His wife's health, never 
very good, was much injured by this excitement, and 
in the summer of 1782 she died. 

Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in 1783. 
Two yeirs later he was appointed Minister Plenipo- 
tentiary to France. Returning to tlie United States 
in September, 1789, he became Secretary of State 
in Washington's cabinet. This position he resigned 
Jan. r, 1794. In 1797, he was chosen Vice Presi- 
dent, and four years later was elected President over 
Mr. Adams, with Aaron Burr as Vice President. In 
1804 he was re-elected with wonderful unanimity, 
and George Clinton, Vice President. 

The early part of Mr. Jefferson's second adminstra- 
tion was disturbed by an event which threatened the 
tranquility and peace of the Union; this was tlie con- 
spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election 
to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an imprincipled 
ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a 
military expedition into the Spanish territories on our 
southwestern frontier, for the purpose of forming there 
a new republic. This has been generally supposed 
was a mere pretext ; and although it has not been 
generally known what his real plans were, there is no 
doubt that they were of a far more dangerous 
character. 

In 1809, at the expiration of the second term for 
which Mr. Jefferson had been elected, he determined 
to retire from political life. For a period of nearly 
forty years, he had been continually before the pub- 
lic, and all that time had been employed in offices of 
the greatest trust and responsibility. Having tlius de- 
voted the best part of his life to the service of his 
country, he now felt desirous of that rest which his 
declining years required, and ujxjn the organization of 
the new administration, in March, 1809, he bid fare- 
well forever to public life, and retired to Monticello. 

Mr. Jefferson was profuse in his hospitality. Whole 
families came in their coaches with their horses, — 
fathers and mothers, boys and girls, liabies and 
nurses, — and remained three and even six months. 
Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a 
fashionable watering-place. 

The fourth of July, 1826, being the fiftieth anniver- 



sary of the Declaration of American Independence, 
great preparations were made in every part of the 
Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and 
the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity 
of the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer^ 
and one of the few surviving signers of the Declara- 
tion, to participate in their festivities. But an ill- 
ness, which had been of several weeks duration, and 
had been continually increasing, compelled him to 
decline the invitation. 

On the second of July, the disease under which 
he was laboring left him, but in such a reduced 
state that his medical attendants, entertained nc 
hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly 
sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the ne.\* 
d;iy, which was Monday, he asked of those around 
him, the day of tiie month, and on being told it was 
the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish tha'; 
he might be permitted to breathe the airof the fiftietli 
anniversary. His prayer was heard — that day, whose 
dawn was hailed with such rajjture through our land, 
burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed for- 
ever. And what a noble consummation of a noble 
life! To die on that day, — the birthday of a nation,- - 
the day which his own name and his own act had 
rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and 
festivities of a whole nation, who looked up to him, 
as the author, under God, of their greatest blessings, 
was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life. 

Almost at the same hour of his death, the kin- 
dred s]3irit of the venerable Adams, as if to bear 
him company, left the scene of his earthly honors, 
Hand in hand they had stood forth, the champions of 
freedom ; hand in hand, during the dark and desper- 
ate struggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and 
animated their desponding countrymen; for half a 
century they had labored together for tne good of 
the country; and now hand in hand they depart. 
In their lives they had been united in the same great 
cause of liberty, and in their deaths they were not 
divided. 

In person Mr. Jefferson was tall and thin, rather 
above six feet in height, but well formed; his eyes 
were light, his hair originally red, in after life became 
white and silvery; his complexion was fair, his fore- 
head broad, and his whole courfenance intelligent and 
thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as 
well as personal courage; and ?.:s command of tem- 
per was such that his oldest and most intimate friends 
never recollected to have seen him in a passion. 
His manners, though dignified, were simple and un- 
affected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that 
all found at his house a ready welcome. In conver- 
sation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic; and 
his language was remarkably pure and correct. He 
was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is 
discernable the care with which he formed his style 
upon the best models of antiquity. 




/<Zy<<^'-'- -^-^^ liy-i^ I r IT' 



FOURTH PRKSIDENT. 



31 



'PnjEsnpDisoi]. 





AMES MADISON, "Father 
^A of the Constitution," and fourth 
■" President of the United States, 
^ was born March 16, 1757, and 
' died at his home in Virginia, 
■*^ June 28, 1836. The name of 
James Madison is inseparably con- 
nected with most of the important 
events in that heroic period of our 
country during which the founda- 
tions of this great republic were 
laid. He was the last of the founders 
of the Constitution of the United 
States to 1)6 called to his eternal 
reward. 

The Madison family were among 
the early emigrants to the New World, 
landing upon the shores of the Chesa- 
peake but 15 years after the settle- 
ment of Jamestown. The father of 
James Madison was an opulent 
planter, residing ujxDn a very fine es- 
tate called "Moutpelier," Orange Co., 
Va. The mansion was situated in 
the midst of scenery highly pictur- 
esque and romantic, on the west side 
of South-west Mountain, at the foot of 
Blue Ridge. It was but 25 miles from the home of 
Jefferson at Monticello. The closest personal and 
political attachment existed between these illustrious 
men, from their early youth until death. 

The early education of Mr. Madison was conducted 
mostly at home under a private tutor. At the age of 
18 he was sent to Princeton College, in New Jersey. 
Here he applied himself to study with the most itn- 



s\i 




prudent zeal; allowing himself, for months, but three 
hours' sleep out of the 24. His health thus became so 
seriously impaired that he never recovered any vigor 
of constitution. He graduated in. 1771, with a feeble 
body, with a character of utmost purity, and with a 
mind highly disciplined and richly stored with learning 
which embellished and gave proficiency to his subse- 
quent career. 

Returning to Virginia, he commenced the study of 
law and a course of extensive and systematic reading. 
This educational course, the spirit of the times in 
which he lived, and the society with which he asso- 
ciated, all combined to inspire him with a strong 
love of liberty, and to train him for his life-work o! 
a statesman. Being naturally of a religious turn of 
mind, and his frail health leading him to think that 
his life was not to be long, he directed especial atten- 
tion to theological studies. Endowed with a mind 
singularly free from passion and [irejudice, and with 
almost unequalled powers of reasoning, he weighed 
all the arguments for and against revealed religion, 
until his faith became so established as never to 
be shaken. 

In the spring of 1776, when 26 years of age, he 
was elected a member of the Virginia Convention, to 
frame the constitution of the State. The next year 
(1777), he was a candidate for the General Assembly. 
He refused to treat the whisky-lovir.g voters, and 
consequently lost his election ; but those who had 
witnessed the talent, energy and public spirit of the 
modest young man, enlisted themselves in his behalf, 
and he was appointed to the Executive Council. 

Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were 
Governors of Virginia' while Mr. Madison remained 
member of the Council ; and their appreciation of hii 



32 



JAMES MADISON. 



'ntellectual, social and moral worth, contributed not 
a little to his subsequent eminence. In the year 
1780, he was elected a member of the Continental 
Congress. Here he met the most illustrious men in 
our land, and he was immediately assigned to one of 
the most conspicuous [xjsiiions among them. 

For three years Mr. Madison continued in Con- 
gress, one of its most active and influential members. 
In the year 1784, his term having e.xpired, he was 
elected a member of the Virginia Legislature. 

Xo man felt more deeply than Mr. Madison the 
utter inefficiency of the old confederacy, with no na- 
tional government, with no jxjwer' to form treaties 
which would be binding, or to enforce law. There 
was not any State more prominent than Virginia in 
the declaration, that an efficient national government 
must be formed. In January, 1786, Mr. Madison 
carried a resolution through the General Assembly of 
Virginia, inviting the other States to aproint commis- 
sioners to meet in convention at Annapolis to discuss 
this subject. Five States only we're rei)resentcd. The 
convention, however, issued another call, drawn up 
by Mr. Madison, urgmg all the States to send their 
delegates to Philadelphia, in May, 1787, to draft 
a Constitution for the United States, to take the place 
of that Confederate League. The delegates met at 
the time apix)inled. F.very State but Rhode Island 
'vas represented. George Washington was chosen 
president of the convention ; and the present Consti- 
tution of the L'nited States was then and there formed. 
There was, perhaps, no mind and no pen more ac- 
tive in framing this immortal document than the mind 
and the pen of James Madison. 

The Constitution, adopted by a vote 81 to 79, was 
to be presented to the several States for acceptance. 
But grave solicitude was felt. Should it be rejected 
we should be left but a conglomeration of independent 
States, with but little power at home and little "espect 
abroad. Mr. Madison was selected by the conven- 
tion to draw up an address to the people of the United 
States, exixjunding the principles of the Constitution, 
and urging its adoption. There was great opjxisition 
to it at first, but it at length triumphed over all, and 
went into effect in 1789. 

Mr. Madison was elected to the House of Repre- 
sentatives in the first Congress, and soon became the 
avowed leader of the Republican party. While in 
New York attending Congress, he met Mrs Todd, a 
young widow of remarkable power of fascination, 
whom he married. She was in jjerson and character 
queenly, and probably no lady has thus far occupied 
so prominent a position in the ve^y peculiar society' 
which has consrituted our republican court as Mrs- 
Madison. 

Mr. Madison ser%-ed as Secretarj- ot State under 
Jefferson, and at the close of his administiation 
was chosen President. At this time the encroach- 
ments of England had brought us to the verge of war. 



British orders in council destioyed our commerce, and 
our flag was exfwsed to constant insult. Mr. Madison 
was a man of peace. Scholarly in his taste, retiring 
in his disposition, war had no charms for him. But the 
meekest spirit can be roused. It makes one's blood 
boil, even now, to think of an American ship brought 
to, ujxsn the ocean, by the guns of an English cruiser. 
A young lieutenant steps on board and orders the 
crcw to be paraded before him. With great nonchal- 
ance he selects any number whom he may please to 
designate as British subjects; orders them down the 
ship's side into his boat ; and places them on the gun- 
deck of his man-of-war, to fight, by compulsion, the 
battles of England. This right of search and im- 
pressment, no efforts of our Government could induce 
the British cabinet to relinquish. 

On the i8th of June, 1812, President Madison gave 
his approval to an act of Congress declaring war 
against Great Britain. Notwithstanding the bitter 
hostility of the Federal parry to the war, the country 
in general approved; and ilr. Madison, on the 4th 
of March, 18 13, was re-elected by a large majority, 
and entered u^on his second term of office. This is 
not the place to describe the various adventurss of 
this war on the land and on the water. Our infan. 
navy then laid the foundations of its renown in grap- 
pling wiih the most formidable power which ever 
swept the seas. The contest commenced in earnest 
by the appearance of a British fleet, early in February, 
18 13, in Chesaj^ake Bay, declaring nearly the whole 
coast of the L"nited States under blockade. 

The Emi^eror of Russia offered his services as me 
ditator. America accepted ; England refused. A Brit- 
ish force of five thousand men landed on the banks 
of the Patu.xet River, near its entrance into Chesa- 
peake Bay, and marched rapidly, by way of Bladens- 
burg, upon Washington. 

The straggling little city of Washington was thrown 
into consternation. The cannon of the brief conflict 
at Bladensburg echoed through the streets of the 
metropolis. The whole population fled from the city. 
The President, lea%-ing Mrs. Madison in the White 
House, with her carriage drawn up at the doer to 
await his speedy return, hurried to meet the officers 
in a council of war He met our troops utterly routed, 
and he could not go back without danger of being 
captured. But few hours elapsed ere the Presidenrial 
Mansion, the Capitol, and all the public buildings in 
Washington were in flames. 

The war closed after two years of fighting, and or. 
Feb. 13, iS 1 5. the treaty of peace was signed at Ghent. 

On the 4th of March, 1817, his second term of 
office expired, and he resigned the Presidential chair 
to his friend, James Monroe. He retired to his beau- 
tiful home at Montpelier. and there passed the re- 
mainder of his days. On June 28, 1836, then at the 
age of 85 years, he fell asleep in death. Mrs. Madi- 
son died July 12, 1849. 




fj^. 



V 



^^i^^^o-x^ 7 /^ ^^ /«r ^ <^ 



FIFTH FRBSIDENT. 



35 




..^ 



L^/y<\A^^^£^ 



pir^ES n]oiiROE. ^n 





AMES MONROE, the fiftli 
'rcsidentof 'I'lie United States, 
was born in Westmoreland Co., 
Va., April 28, 1758. His early 
life was passed at the place of 
nativity. Hi.5 ancestors had for 
many years resided in the prov- 
ince in which he was born. When, 
at 17 years of age, in the process 
of completing his education at 
William and Mary C^ollege, the Co- 
lonial Congress assembled at Phila- 
delphia to deliberate upon the un- 
just and manifold oppressions of 
Oreat Britian, declared the separa- 
tion of the Colonies, and promul- 
gated the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence. Had he been born ten years before it is highly 
probable that he would have been one of the signers 
of that celebrated instrument. At this time he left 
school and enlisted among the jjatriots. 

He joined the army when everything looked hope- 
less and gloomy. The number of deserters increased 
from day to day. The invading armies came pouring 
in ; and the tories not only favored the cause of the 
mother country, but disheartened the new recruits, 
who were sufficiently terrified at the prospect of con- 
t.;nding with an enemy whom they had been taught 
to deen"i invincible. To such brave s[)irits as James 
Monroe, who went right onward, vindismayed through 
difficulty and danger, the United States owe their 
political emancipation. The young cadet joined the 
rairks, and esixjused the cause of his injured country, 
• with a firm determination to live or die with her strife 



for liberty. Firmly yet sadly he shared in the mel- 
ancholy retreat from Harleam Heights and White 
Plains, and accompanied the dispirited army as it fled 
before its foes through New Jersey. In four months 
after the Declaration of Independence, the patriots 
had been beaten in seven battles. At the battle of 
Trenton he led the vanguard, and, in the act of charg- 
ing upon the enemy he received a wound in the left 
shoulder. 

As a reward for his bravery, Mr. Monroe was pro- 
moted a captain of infantry; and, having recovered 
from his wound, he rejoined the army. He, however, 
receded from the line of promotion, by becoming an 
officer in the staff of Ix3rd Sterling. During the cam- 
paigns of 1777 and 1778, in the actions of Brandy 
wine, Germantown and Monmouth, he continued 
aid-de-camp; but becoming desirous to regain his 
position in the army, he exerted himself to collect a 
regiment for the Virginia line. This scheme failed 
owing to the exhausted condition of the State. Upon 
this failure he entered the office of Mr. Jefferson, at 
that period Governor, and pursued, with considerable 
ardor, the study of common law. He did not, however, 
entirely lay aside the knapsack for the green bag; 
but on the invasions of the enemy, served as a volun 
teer, during the two years of his legal pursuits. 

In 1782, he was elected from King George county, 
a member of the Leglislature of Virginia, and by that 
l)ody he was elevated to a seat in the K.xecuiive 
Council. He was thus honored with the confidence 
of his fellow citizens at 23 years of age ; and having' 
at this early jjeriod displayed some of that ability 
and a|)titude for legislation, which were afterwards 
emi)loyed with unremitting energy fori he public good, 



36 



JAAfES MONROE. 



he was in the succeeding year chosen a member of 
ihe Congress of the United States. 
Deeply as Mr. Monroe felt the imperfections of the old 
Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution, 
ihinking, with many others of *he Republican party, 
that it gave too much power to the Central Government, 
and not enough to the individual States. Still he re- 
tained the esteem of his friends who were its wami 
supporters, and who, notwithstanding his opposition 
secured its adoption. In 17S9, he became a member 
of the United States Senate; which office he held for 
four years. Every month the line of distinction be- 
tween the two great parties which di\ided the nation, 
the Federal and the Republican, was growing more 
distinct. The two prominent iaeas which now sep- 
arated them were, that the Republican party was in 
sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a 
strict construction of the Constitution as to give the 
Central Government as little power, and the State 
Governments as much iwwer, as the Constitution would 
warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England, 
and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Con- 
stitution, which would give as much power to the 
Central Government as that document could possibly 
authorize. 

The leading Federalists and Republicans were 
alike noble men, consecrating all their energies to the 
good of the nation. Two more honest men or more 
pure patriots than John Adams the Federalist, and 
James Monroe the Republican, never breathed. In 
Ibuilding up this majestic nation, which is destined 
to eclipse all Grecian and Assyrian greatness, the com- 
bination of their antagonism was needed to create the 
light equilibrium. And yet each in his day was de- 
nounced as almost a demon. 

Washington was then President. England had es- 
poused the cause of the Bourbons against the princi- 
ples of the French Revolution. All Europe was drawn 
into the conflict. We were feeble and far away. 
Washington issued a prcxrlaniation of neutrality be- 
tween these contending ]K)\vers. France had hel[)ed 
lis in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms 
of Europe were now combined to prevent the French 
from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse 
than that which we had endured Col. Monroe, more 
magnanimous than prudent, was anxious that, at 
whatever hazard, we should help our old allies in 
their extremity. It was the impulse of a generous 
and noble nature. He violently opixjsed the Pres- 
ident's proclamation as ungrateful and wanting in 
magnanimity. 

Washington, who could appreciate such a character, 
develo(>ed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness, 
by appointing that very James Monroe, who was de- 
nouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister 
of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr. 
Monroe was welcometl by the National Convention 
in France witu the most enthusiastic demonstr/«-tions. 



Shortly after his return to this countn', Mr. Mon- 
roe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the 
office for three yeais. He was again sent to France to 
co-o^ierate with Chancellor Livingston in obtaining 
the vast territory then known as the Province of 
Louisiana, which France had but shortly before ob- 
tained from Spain. Tneir united efforts were suc- 
cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen 
millions of dollars, the entire territorj- of Orleans and 
district of Louisiana were added to the Lnited States. 
This was probably the largest transfer of real estate 
which was ever made in all the history of the world 

From France Mr. Monroe went to England to ob- 
tain from that countr)' some recognition of on. 
rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those 
odious impressments of our seamen. but Eng- 
land was unrelenting. He again returned to Eng- 
land on the same mission, but could receive no 
redress. He returned to his home and was again 
chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned 
to accept the [xisition of Secretary of State unde- 
Madison. While in this office war with England was 
declared, the Secretary' of War resigned, and during 
these trying times, the duties of the War Departmen 
were also (nit u[X)n him. He was truly the armor- 
bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient 
business man in his cabinet. Upon the return ol 
peace he resigned the Department of War, but con- 
tinued in the office of Secretar)- of State until the ex- 
jnration of Mr. Madison's adminstration. At the elec- 
tion held the preNnous autumn Mr. Monroe himself had 
been chosen President with but little opposition, and 
upon March 4, 1817, was inaugurated. Four year? 
later he was elected for a second term. 

Among the imi>ortant measures of his Presidencv 
were the cession of Florida to the United States: the 
Missouri Compromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.' 

This famous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe 
doctrine," was enunciated by him in 1823. At thar 
time the United Stales had recognized the independ- 
ence of the South American states, and did not wish 
to have Euro]iean jwwers longer attempting to sub 
due jwrtions of the American Continent. The doctrine 
is as follows: "That we should consider any attempt 
on the part of Euroj^ean powers to extend their sys- 
tem to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous 
to our peace and safety," and "that we could ro' 
view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing 
or controlling American governments or provinces ir 
any other light than as a manifestation by Euroiieai: 
powers of an unfriendly disposition toward the Unitec 
States." This doctrine immediately affected the course 
of foreign governments, and has become the approved 
sentiment of the United States. 

At the end of his jecond term Mr Monroe retired 
to his home in Virginia, where he lived until 1830 
when he went to New Vork to live with his son-in- 
law. In that city he died, on the 4th of July. 'S31 




5. S. Ai 



<V)>v5 



SIXTH PRESIDENT. 




:,r'#-r;;s*$;&*$;;g-<&-s-;$«#.$;;g»se;;S<* 



1 JO5I] QnipY ^D^IIQS. 






^^vx:^/^*^ 




j<5>-- 





OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the 
luth President of the United 
'States, was born in the rural 
home of his honored father, 
John Adams, in Quincy, Mass., 
on the I ith of July, 1767. His 
mother, a woman of exalted 
woith, watched over his childhood 
during the almost constant ab- 
sence of his father. When but 
eight years of ?ge, he stood with 
his mother on an eminence, listen- 
ing to the booming of the great bat- 
tle on Bunker's Hill, and gazing on 
uixin the smoke and flames billow- 
ing up from the conflagration of 
Charlestown. 

When but eleven years old he 
took a tearful adieu of his mother, 
to sail with his fattier for Europe, 
through a licet ot hostile British cruisers. The bright, 
c^nimated boy spent a year and a half in Paris, where 
his father was associated with Franklin and Lee as 
minister plenipotentiary. His intelligence attracted 
the notice of these distinguished men, and he received 
from them flattering marks of attention. 

Mr. John Adams iiad scarcely returned to this 
cou ".try, in 1779, ere he was again sent abroad Again 
loi.ii Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he 
ap[)lied himself with great diligence, for si.K months, 
to .-.♦udy; then accompained his father to Holland, 
v/here he entered, first a school in .Amsterdam, then 
the University at I.eyden. About a year from this 
time, in 1781, when the manly boy was but fourteen 
yea's of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our min- 
ister to the Russian court, as his private secretary'. 

In this school of incessant labor and of enobling 
culture he s[)cnt fourteen months, and then returned 
to Holland thiough Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and 
Bremen. This Ic.ng journey he took alone, in the 
winter, wlien in his sixteenth year. Again he resumed 
ais studies, under a pri"ate tutor, at Hague. Thence, 



in the spring of 1782, he accompanied his father i; 
Paris, travehng leisurely, and forming acquaintanct 
with the most distinguished men on the Continent 
examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings 
and all renowned works of art. At Paris he agaii, 
became associated with the most illustrious men o( 
all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest temporal 
themes which can engross the human mind. Afte- 
a short visit to England he returned to Paris, ana 
consecrated alliiis energies to study until May, 1785, 
when he returned to America. To a brilliant young 
man of eighteen, who had seen much of the world, 
and who was familiar with the etiquette of courts, a 
residence with his father in London, under such cir- 
cumstances, must have been extremely attractive 
but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he pre- 
ferred to return to America to complete his education 
in an American college. He wished then to study 
law, that with an honorable profession, he might be 
able to obtain an independent support. 

Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of twenty 
he studied law for three years. In June, 1794, be- 
ing then but twenty-seven years of age, he was ap- 
pointed liy Washington, resident minister at the 
Netherlands. Sailing from Boston in July, he reachea 
London in October, where he was immediately admit- 
ted to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney 
assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with 
(iieat Brilian. After thus spending a fortnight i. 
London, he proceeded to the Hague. 

In July, 1797, he left the Hague to go to Portugal as 
minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal, 
upon arriving in London, he met with despatches 
directing him to the court of Berlin, but requesting 
him to remain in London until he should receive his 
instructions. Mhile waiting he was married to ar 
American lady to whom he had been jireviously en- 
gaged, — M'ss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughte 
of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American consul in I ondon 
a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom- 
plishment which eminently fitted her to move In ti4 
elevated sphere for which she was ^«*'iced 



JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. 



He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ; 
where he remained until July, 1799, when, having ful- 
filled all the purposes of his mission, he solicited his 
recall. 

Soon after his return, in 1802, he was chosen to 
the Senate of Massachusetts, from Boston, and then 
was elected Senator of the United States for six years, 
from the 4th of March, 1804. His reputation, his 
ability and his experience, placed him immediately 
among the most prominent and influential members 
of that body. Especially did he sustain the Govern- 
ment in its measures of resistance to the encroach- 
ments of England, destroying our commerce and in- 
sulting our flag. There was no man in America more 
familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon 
these points, and no one more resolved to present 
a firm resistance. 

In 1809, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Pres- 
idential chair, and he inmiediately nominated John 
Quincy .\dams minister to St. Petersburg. Resign- 
ing his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked 
at Boston, in August, 1809. 

While in Russia, Mr. Adams was an intense stu- 
dent. He devoted his attention to the language and 
history of Russia; to the Chinese trade; to the 
European system of weights, measures, and coins ; to 
the climate and astronomical observations; while he 
kept up a familiar acquaintance with tlie Greek and 
Latin classics. lu all the universities of Europe, a 
more accomplished scholar could scarcely be found. 
All through life the Bible constituted an imixirtant 
ipart of his studies. It was his rule to read five 
chapters every day. 

On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe took the 
Presidential chair, and immediately apixjinted Mr. 
Adams Secretary of State. Taking leave of his num- 
erous friends in public and private life in Europe, he 
sailed in June, 1819, for the United States. On the 
18th of August, he again crossed the threshold of his 
home in Quincy. During the eight years of Mr. Mon- 
roe's administration, Mr. Adams continued Secretary 
of State. 

Some time before '.he close of Mr. Monroe's second 
term of office, new candidates began to be presented 
for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams brought 
forward his name. It was an exciting campaign. 
Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and 
sixty electoral votes were cast. .Andrew Jackson re- 
ceived ninety-nine; John Quincy .\dams, eighty-four; 
WilliaiTi H. Crawford, forty -one; Henry Clay, thirty- 
seven. As there was no choice by the people, the 
question went to the House of Representatives. Mr. 
Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and 
he was elected. 

The friends of all the disappointed candidates now 
;ombined in a venomous and persistent assault upon 
Mr. Adams. There is nothing more disgraceful in 
»JK« past history of our country than the abuse which 



was poured in one uninterrupted stream, upon this 
high-minded, upright, patriotic man. There never was 
an administration more pure in principles, more con- 
scientiously devoted to the best interests of the coun- 
try, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, per- 
haps, was there an administration more unscrupu- 
lously and outrageously assailed. 

Mr Adams was, to a very remarkable degree, ab- 
stemious and temperate in his habits; always rising 
early, and takingmuch exercise. A\ hen at his homci.i 
Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast, 
seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said 
that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his 
own fire and applying himself to work in his librarv 
often long before dawn. 

On the 4th of March, 1829, Mr. Adams retirtd 
from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew 
Jackson. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice Presi- 
dent. The slavery question now began to assume 
portentous magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to 
Quincy and to his studies, which he pursued with un- 
abated zeal. But he was not long permitted to re- 
main in retirement. In November, 1830, he was 
elected representative to Congress. For seventeen 
years, until his death, he occupied the post as repre- 
sentative, towering above all his peers, ever ready to 
do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of 
"the old man eloquent." Ujwn taking his seat in 
the House, he announced that he should hold him- 
self bound to no party. Probably there never was a 
member more devoted to his duties. He was usually 
the first in his place in the morning, and the last to 
leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could 
be brought forward and escape his scrutiny. '1 he 
battle which Mr. .\dams fought, almost singly, agains*: 
the proslavery party in the Government, was sublime 
in Its moral daring and heroism. For persisting in 
presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he 
was threatened with indictment by the grand jury 
with expulsion from the House, with assassination 
but no tlireats could intimidate him, and his final 
triumph was complete. 

It has been said of President Adams, that when his 
body was bent and his hair silvered by the lapse of 
fourscore years, yielding to the simple faith of a little 
child, he was accustomed to repeat ever)' night, before 
he slept, the prajer which his mother taught him in 
his infant years. 

On the 2istof February, 1848, he rose on the floor 
of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address the 
speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by parnly 
sis, and was caught in the arms of those around him. 
For a time he was senseless, as he was conveyed to 
the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving conscious- 
ness, he opened his eyes, looked calmly around aid 
said " This is the end of earth ;"\.\\^w after a moment's 
pause he add. 'd, '■\l am content" These were the 
last words of the grand "Old Man Eloquent." 





^^-o^^ 



n 



^^^^^^%S-^-z^ 



SE VENTH PRESIDENT. 



*3 










seventh 
;i Lnited btates. 



NDREW JACKSON, the 
President of the 
was born in 
Waxhaw settlement, N. C, 
March 15, 1767, a few days 
after his father's death. His 
parents were jxwr emigrants 
from Ireland, and took up 
their abode in Waxhaw set- 
tlement, where they lived in 
deepest jxjverty. 
Andrew, or Andy, as he was 
universally called, grew up a very 
rough, rude, turbulent boy. His 
features were coarse, his fonii un- 
gainly; and there was but very 
little in his character, made visible, which was at- 
tractive. 

When only thirteen years old he joined the volun- 
teers of Carolina against the British invasion. In 
17S1, he and his brother Robert were captured and 
imprisoned for a time at Camden. .A. British officer 
ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am 
a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of 
the dauntless boy. 

The brute drew his sword, and aimed a des]>erate 
Dlow at the head of the helpless young prisoner. 
.Andrew raised his hand, and thus received two fear- 
ful gashes, — one on the hand and the other u]X)n the 
head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert 
with the same demand. He also refused, and re- 
ceived a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite 
disabled him, and which probably soon after caused 
his death. They suffered muchother ill-treatment, and 
were finally stricken \vith the small-pox. Their 
mother was successful h- .(Wtaining their exchange. 



and took her sick boys home. After a long illnjs>, 
-Andrew recovered, and the death of his mother soon 
left him entirely friendless. 

-Andrew supported himself in various ways, sich a3 
working at the saddler's trade, teaching school and 
clerking in a general store, until 1784, when he 
entered a law office at Salisbury, N. C. He, however, 
gave more attention to the wild amusements of the 
times than to his studies. In 1788, he was apjKiinted 
solicitor for the western district of North Carolina, of 
which Tennessee was then a part. This involved 
many long and tedious journeys amid dangers of 
every kind, but .Andrew Jackson never knew fear, 
and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmisb, 
witti the Sharp Knife. 

In 1791, Mr. Jackson was married to a woman who 
supposed herself divorced from her former husband. 
Great was the surprise of both parties, two years later, 
to find that the conditions of the divorce had just been 
definitely settled by the first husband. The marriage 
ceremony was performed a second time, but the occur- 
rence was ofteu used by his enemies to bring Mr. 
Jackson into disfavor. 

During these years he worked hard at his profes 
sion, and frequently had one or more duels on hand, 
one of which, when he killed Dickenson, was espec- 
ially disgraceful. 

In January, 1796, the Territorj- of Tennessee then 
containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, the 
people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a con- 
stitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven 
counties. -Andrew Jackson was one of the deiega*es.' 
The new State was entitled to but one member io 
the Natio.nal House of Representatives. Andrew JacT:- 
son was chosen that member. Mounting his horse he 
rode to Philedelphia, where Congress then lield its 



ANDREW JACKSON. 



iesjions, — a distance of about eight hundred miles. 

Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Demo- 
cratic party. Jefferson was his idol. He admired 
Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr. 
Jackson took his seat, Gon. Washington, whose 
second term of office was then e.xpiring, delivered his 
last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a 
complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson 
did not approve of the address, and was one of the 
twelve who voted against it. He was not willing to 
say that Gen. Washington's adminstration had been 
" wise, firm and patriotic." 

Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States 
Senate in 1797, but soon resigned and returned home. 
Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court 
of his State, which position he held fjr si.x years. 

When the war of 1812 with Great Britian com- 
menced, Madison occupied the Presidential chair. 
Aaron Burr sent word to the President that there was 
an unknown man in the West, Andrew Jackson, who 
would do credit to a commission if one were con- 
ferred w\pn him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson 
jffeied his services and those of twenty-five hundred 
volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops 
were assembled at Nashville. 

As the British were hourly expected to make an at- 
tack i;[)on New Orleans, where Gen. Wilkinson was 
in command, he was ordered to descend the river 
with fifteen hundred troops to aid Wilkinson. The 
expedition reached Natchez; and after a delay of sev- 
eral weeks there, without accomplishing anything, 
the men were ordered back to their homes. But the 
energy Gen. Jackson had displayed, and his entire 
devotion to the comrfort of his soldiers, won him 
golden opinions; and he became the most popular 
man in the State. It was in this expedition that his 
toughness gave him the nickname of " Old Hickory." 

Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col. 
Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman 
made about his taking a part as second in a duel, in 
which a younger brother of Benton's was engaged, 
he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was 
lingering upon a bed of suffering news came that the 
Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from 
Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white set- 
tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De- 
cisive action became necessary. Gen. Jackson, with 
his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in 
a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assis- 
tance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an 
army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, .\labama. 

The Creek Indians had established a strong fort on 
one of the bendsof the Tallapoosa River, near the cen- 
ter of Alabama, about fifty miles below Fort Strother. 
\Vith an army of two thousand men. Gen. Jackson 
traversed the pathless wilderness in a march of eleven 
days. He reached their fort, called Tohopeka or 
Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend 



of the river enclosed nearly one hunared acres oi 
tangled forest and wild ravine. Across the narrow 
neck the Indians had constructed a formidable breast- 
work of logs and brush. Here nine hundred warriors, 
with an ample suply of arn.s were assembled. 

The fort was stormed. I'he fight was utterly des- 
perate Not an Indian would accept of quarter. When 
bleeding and dying, they would fight those who en- 
deavored to spare their lives. From ten in the morn- 
ing until dark, the battle raged. The carnage was 
awful and revolting. Some threw themselves into the 
river; but the unerring bullet struck their heads as 
they swam. Nearly ever)' one of the nine hundred war- 
rios were killed A few probably, in the night, swam 
the river and escaped. This ended the war. The 
[XDwer of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold 
plunge into the wilderness, with itsterriffic slaughter, 
so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants 
of the bands cauie to the camp, begging for peace. 

This closing of the Creek war enabled us to con- 
centrate all our militia upon the British, who were the 
allies of the Indians No man of less resolute will 
than Gen. Jackson could have conducted this Indian 
campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he 
was appointed major-general. 

Late in .\ugust, with an army of two thousand 
men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to 
Mobile. A British fleet came from Pensacola, landed 
a force upon the lieach, anchored near the little fort, 
and from both ship and shore commenced a furious 
assault The battle was long and doubtful. At length 
one of the ships was blown up and the rest retired. 

Garrisoning Mobile, where he had taken his little 
army, he moved his troops to New Orleans, 
And the battle of New Orleans which soon ensued, 
was in reality a very arduous campaign. This won 
for Gen. Jackson an imperishable name. Here his 
troops, which numbered about four thousand men, 
won a signal victory over the British army of about 
nine thousand. His loss was but thiileen, while the 
loss of the British was two thousand six hundred. 

The name of Gen. Jackson soon began to be men- 
tioned in connection with the Presidency, but, in 1824, 
he was defeated by Mr. Adams. He was, however, 
successful ill the election of 1828, and was re-elected 
for a second term in 1832. In 1829, just before he 
assumed the reins of tlie government, he met with 
the most terrible affliction of his life in the death of 
his wife, whom he had loved with a devotion which has 
perhaps never been surpassed. From the shock of 
her death he never recovered. 

His administration was one of the most memorable 
in the annals of our country; app'laude/^ oyone party, 
condemned by the other. No man had more bitter 
enemies or wanner friends. At the expiration of his 
two terms of office he retired to the Hermitage, where 
he died Tune 8, 1845. The last years of Mr. Jack- 
son's life were that of a devoted Christian man. 








^ 1 l-U'^'r ^^^/Ju. 



EIGHTH PRESIDENT. 




m,\ 






"-;f;J 





ARTIN VAN BUREN, the 
eighth President of the 
United States, was born at 
Kinderhook, N. Y., Dec. 5, 
1782. He died at the same 
place, July 24, 1862. His 
body rests in the cemetery 
at Kinderhook. Above it is 
a plain granite shaft fifteen feet 
high, bearing a simple inscription 
about hall way up on one face. 
The lot is unfenced, unbordered 
or unbounded by shrub or flower. 

There is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren 
of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged 
in no wild adventures. Though his life was stormy in 
political and intellectual conflicts, and lie gained many 
signal victories, his days passed uneventful in those 
incidents which give zest to biography. His an- 
cestors, as liis name indicates, were of Dutch origin, 
and were among the earliest emigrants from Holland 
to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a farmer, 
residing in the old town of Kinderhook. His mother, 
also of Dutch lineage, was a woman of superior intel- 
ligence and exemplary piety. 

.■fe was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un- 
usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the 
age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies 
'.n his native village, and commenced the study of 
aw. As he had not a collegiate education, seven 
years of study in a law-office were required of him 
fjefore he could be aduiitted to the bar. Inspired with 
J. lofty ambition, and conscious of liis powers, he pur- 
sued his studies with indefatigable industry. After 
spending six ye;)!-: in an office in i-is native village, 



he went to the city of New York, and prosecuted hia 
studies for the seventh year. 

In 1803, Mr. Van Buren, then twenty-one years ot 
age, commenced the practice of law in his native vil- 
lage. The great conflict between the Federal and 
Republican party was then at its height. Mr. Van 
Buren was from the beginning a politician. He had, 
■perhaps, imbibed that spirit while listening to the 
many discussions which had been carried on in his 
father's hotel. He was in cordial sympathy with 
Jefferson, and earnestly and eloquently espoused the 
cause of .State Rights; though at that time the Fed- 
eral party held the supremacy both in his towa 
and State. 

His success and increasing ruputation led him 
after six years of practice, to remove to Hudson, tli. 
county seat of his county. Here he spent seven years, 
constantly gaining strength by contending in tin 
courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned 
the bar of his State. 

Just before leaving Kinderhook for Hudson, Mi. 
Van Buren married a lady alike distinguished for 
beauty and accomplishments. After twelve short 
years she sank into the grave, the victim of consump. 
tion, leaving her husband and four sons to weep ovei 
her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was- 
an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record 
of those years is barren in items of public interest. 
In 1 81 2, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to 
the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to 
Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1815, he was ap- 
pointed Attorney-General, and the next year moved 
to Albany, the capital of the State. 

'.V'liile he was ackno\Vledged us one of the most 
p. eminent leaders of the Democratic party, he had 



48 



MARTIN VAN BUREN. 



the moral courage to avow that true democracy did 
not require that '' universal suffrage" which admits 
the vile, the degraded, the ignorant, to the right of 
governing the State. In true consistency with his 
democratic principles, he contended that, while the 
path leading to the privilege of voting should be open 
to every man without distinction, no one should be 
invested with that sacred prerogative, unless he were 
in some degree qualified for it by intelligence, virtue 
and some property interests in the welfare of the 
State. 

In 1 82 1 he was elected :. member of the United 
States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat 
in the convention to revise the constitution of his 
native State. His course in this convention secured 
the approval of men of all parties. No one could 
doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the 
interests of all classes in the community. In the 
Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a 
':onspicuous position as an active and useful legislator. 

In 1827, John Quincy Adams being then in the 
Vresidential chair, Mr. Van Buren was re-elected to 
.he Senate. He had been from the beginning a de- 
•ermined opposer of the Administration, adopting the 
■'State Rights " view in opposition to what was 
deemed the Federal proclivities of Mr. Adams. 

Soon after this, in 1828, he was chosen Governorof 
the State of New York, and accordingly resigned his 
^eat in the Senate. Probably no one in the United 
States contributed so much towards ejecting John Q. 
\dams from the Presidential chair, and placing in it 
Andrew Jackson, as did Martin Van Buren. Whether 
entitled to the reputation or not, he certainly was re- 
garded througiiout the United States as one of the 
most skillful, sagacious and cunning of politicians. 
It was supposed that no one knew so well as he how 
to touch the secret spiings of action; how to pull all 
the wires to put his machinery in motion; and how to 
organize a political army which would, secretly and 
ste.-jlthily accomplish the most gigantic results. By 
these powers it is said that lie outv/itted Mr. Adams, 
Mr. Clay, Mr. Webster, and secured results which 
few thought then could be accomplished. 

When Andrew Jackson was elected President he 
appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This 
position lie resigned in 1831, and was immediately 
appointed Minister to England, where he went the 
same autumn. The Senate, however, when it met, 
refused to ratify the nomination, and he returned 



home, apparently untroubled; was nominated Vice 
President in the place of Calhoun, at the re-election 
of President Jackson; and with smiles for all and 
fiowns for none, he took his place at the head of that 
Senate which had refused to confirm his noinination 
as ambassador. 

His rejeciion by the Senate roused all the zeal of 
President Jackson in behalf of his repudiated favor- 
ite ; and this, probably more than any other caus ., 
secured his elevation to the chair of the Chief Execa 
live. On the 20th of May, 1836, Mr. Van Buren re- 
ceived the Democratic nomination to succeed Gen. 
Jackson as President of the United States. He was 
elected by a handsome majority, to the delight of the 
retiring President. " Leaving New York out of the 
canvass," says Mr. Parton, "the election of Mr. Van 
Buren to the Presidency was as much the act of Gei 
Jackson as though the Constitution had conferred 
upon him the power to appoint a successor." 

His administration was filled with exciting events. 
The insurrection in Canada, which threatened to in- 
volve this country in war with England, the agitation 
of the slavery question, and finally the great commer- 
cial panic which spread over the country, all were 
trials to his wisdom. The financial distress was at- 
tributed to the management of the Democratic party, 
and brouglit the President into such disfavor that he 
failed of re election. 

With the exception of being nominated for the 
Presidency by the "Free Soil" Democrats, in 1848, 
Mr. Van Buren lived (juietly uixsn his estate until 
his death. 

He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal habits, 
and living within his income, had now fortunately a 
competence for his declining years. His unblemished 
character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned 
patriotism, ard the distinguished positions which he 
had occujjied in the government of our countrj', se- 
cured to him not only the homage of his party, but 
the respect ot the whole community. It was on the 
4th of March, 1841, that Mr. Van Buren retired from 
the presidency. From his fine estate at Lindenwald, 
he still exerted a powerful influence \\^^\\ the politics 
of the country. From this time until his death, on 
the 24th of July, 1862, at the age of eighty years, he 
resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, of 
culture and of wealth; enjoying in a liealthy old 
age, probably far more hnppiness than he !i;id befor- 
experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active life. 





<^^^(7^y~^ 




^^/^/fe^-^ 



>\_^ 



NINTH PRESIDENT. 



5' 




w^^MM mil m^i^ii. 





ILLIAM HENRY HARRI- 
SON, the ninth President of 
the United States, was born 
at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773. 
f J His father, Benjamin Harri- 
son, was in comparatively op- 
ulent circumstances, and was 
one of the most distinguished 
men of his day. He was an 
intimate friend of George 
Washington, was early elected 
a member of the Continental 
Congress, and was conspicuous 
among the patriots of Virginia in 
resisting the encroachments of the 
British crown. In the celebrated 
Congress of 1775, Benjamin Har- 
rison and John Hancock were 
both candidates for the office of 
speaker. 

fMr Harrison was subsequently 
chosen Governor of Virginia, and 
was twice re-elected. His son, 
i William Henry, of course enjoyed 

in childhood all the advantages which wealth and 
intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav- 
ing received a thorough coniuion-school education, he 
entered Hampden Sidney College, where he graduated 
with honor soor. after the death of his father. He 
Uien repaired to Philadelphia to study medicine under 
the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianship of 
«obert Morris, both of whom were, with his father, 
signers of the Declaration of Independence. 

Jpon the outbreak of the Indian troubles, and not- 
withstanding the 'emonstrances of his friends, he 
aijandoned his medical studies and entered the army, 
.laving obtained a commission of Ensign from Presi- 



dent Washington. He was then but 19 years old. 
From that time he passed gradually upward in rank 
until he became aid to General Wayne, after whose 
death he resigned his commission. He was then ap- 
pointed Secretary of the North-western Territory. This 
Territory was then entitled to but one member in 
Congress and Capt. Harrison was chosen to fill that 
position. 

In the spring of 1800 the North-western Territory 
was divided by Congress into two portions. The 
eastern portion, comprising the region now embraced 
in the State of Ohio, was called " The Territory 
north-west of the Ohio." The western portion, which 
included what is now called Indiana, Illinois and 
\Visconsin, was called the "Indiana Territory." Wil 
liam Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was ap 
jX)inted by John Adams, Governor of the Indiana 
Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of 
Upper Louisiana. He was thus ruler over almost as 
extensive a realm as any sovereign upon the globe. He 
was Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and was in- 
vested with powers nearly dictatorial over the now 
rapidly increasing white population. The ability and 
fidelity with which he discharged these responsible 
duties may be inferred from the fact that he was four 
times appointed to this office — first by John Adams, 
twice by Thomas Jefferson and afterwards by Presi- 
dent Madison. 

When he began his adminstration there were but 
three white setllementsin that almost boundless region, 
now crowded with cities and resounding with all the 
tumult of wealth and traffic. One of these settlements 
was on the Ohio, nearly opposite Louisville; one at 
Vincennes, on the Wabash, and the third a French 
settlement. 

The vast wilderness over which Gov. Harrisoii 
reigned was filled with many tribes of Indians. Aboii* 



WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON. 



the year 1806, two extraordinary mer., twin brothers, 
of the Shawnese tribe, rose among them. One of 
these was called Tecumseh, or " The Crouching 
Panther;" the other, Olliwacheca, or " The Prophet." 
Tecuinseh was not only an Indian warrior, but a man 
of great sagacity, far-reaching foresight and indomit- 
able perseverance in any enterprise in which he might 
engage. He was inspired with the highest enthusiasm, 
and had long regarded with dread and with hatred 
the encroachment of the whites upon the hunting- 
grounds of his fathers. His brother, the Prophet, was 
anorator, who could sway the feelings of the untutored 
Indian as the gale tossed the tree-tops beneath which 
they dwelt. 

But the Prophet was not merely anorator: he was, 
in the superstitious minds of the Indians, invested 
with the superhuman dignity of a medicine-man or a 
magician. With an enthusiasm unsurpassed by Peter 
tiie Hermit rousing Europe to the crusades, he went 
from tribe to tribe, assuming that he was specially sent 
by the Great Spirit. 

Gov. Harrison made many attempts to conciliate 
the Indians, but at last the war came, and at Tippe- 
canoe the Indians were routed with great slaughter. 
October 28, 18 12, his army began its inarch. When 
near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made 
their appearance and inquired why Gov. Harrison was 
approaching them in so hostile an attitude. After a 
short conference, arrangements were made for a meet- 
ing the next day, to agree upon terms of peace. 

But Gov. Harrison was too well acquainted with 
the Indian character to be deceived by such protes- 
tations Selecting a favorable spot for his night's en- 
campment, he took every precaution against surprise. 
His troops were posted in a hollow square, and slept 
upon their arms. 

The troops threw themselves upon the ground for 
rest; but every man had his accourtrements on, his 
loaded musket by his side, and his bayonet fixed. The 
wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in 
the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa- 
tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It 
was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In 
the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi- 
ble, and j'lst then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all 
the desperation which superstition and passion most 
highly inflamed could give, upon the left flank of the 
little army. The savages had been amply provided 
with guns and ammunition by the English. Their 
war-whoop was accompained by a shower of bullets. 

The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the 
light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide- 
ous yells, the Indian bands rushed on, not doubting a 
speedy and an entire victor)-. But Gen. Harrison's 
troops stood as immovable as the rocks around them 
until day dawned : they then made a simultaneous 
charge with the bayonet, and swept every thing be- 
fore them, and completely routing thf foe. 



Gov. Harrison now had all his energies tasked 
to the utmost. The British desceiiding from the Can- 
adas, were of themselves a very formidable force ; but 
with their savage allies, rushing like wolves from the 
forest, searching out every remote farm-house, burn- 
ing, plundering, scalping, torturing, the wide frontier 
was plunged into a state of consternation which even 
the most vivid imagination can but faintly conceive. 
The war-whoop was resounding everywhere in the 
forest. The horizon was illuminated with the conflagra- 
tion of the cabins of the settlers. Gen Hull had made 
the ignominious surrender of his forces at Detroit. 
Under these despairing circumstances. Gov. Harrison 
was appointed by President Madison cominander-in- 
chief of the North-western army, with orders to retake 
Detroit, and to protect the frontiers. 

It would be difficult to place a man in a situation 
demanding more energy, sagacity and courage; bui 
General Harrison was found equal to the position, 
and nobly and triumphantly did he meet all the re- 
sponsibilities. 

He won the love of his soldiers by always sharinji 
with them their fatigue. His whole baggage, while 
pursuing the foe up the Thames, was carried in a 
valise; and his bedding consi.-ited of a single blanket 
lashed over his saddle Thirty-five British officers, 
his prisoners of war, supped with him after the battle. 
The orily fare he could give them was beef roasted 
before the fire, without bread or salt. 

In 18 1 6, Gen. Harrison was chosen a iviember of 
the National House of Representatives, to represent 
the District of Ohio. In Congress he proved an 
active member; and whenever he sjxjke, it was with 
force of reason and power of eloquence, which arrested 
the attention of all the members. 

In i8ig, Harrison was elected to the Senate oi 
Ohio; and in 1824, as one of the presidential electors 
of that State, he gave his vote for Henry Clay. The 
same year he was chosen to the United States Senate. 

In 1836, tlie friends of Gen. Harrison brouglit him 
forward as a candidate for the Presidency against 
Van Buren, but he was defeated. At the close of 
Mr. Van Buren 's term, he was re-nomirated by his 
party, and Mr. Harrison was imanimously nominated 
by the Whigs, with John Tyler lorthe Vice Presidency. 
The contest was very animated. Gen Jackson gave 
all his influence to prevent Harrison's election ; but 
his triumph was signal. 

The cabinet which he formed, with Daniel Webster 
at its head as Secretary of State, was one of the most 
brilliant with which any President had ever been 
surrounded. Never were the prospects of an admin- 
istration more flattering, or the hopes of the country 
more sanguine. In the midst of these bright and 
joyous prospects. Gen. Harrison was seized by a 
pleurisv-fever and after a few days of violent sick- 
ness, died on the 4th of April; just one month after 
his inauguration 3s President of the United States, 



TENTH PRESIDENT. 



55 





OHN TYLER, the tenth 
I'residentof the United States. 
He was born in Chiirles-city 
Co , Va., March 29, 1790. He 
was the favored child of af- 
fluence and high social po- 
sition At the early age of 
twelve, John entered William 
and Mary College and grad- 
uated with much honor when 
but seventeen years old. After 
graduating, he devoted him- 
self with great assiduity to the 
study of law, partly with his 
father and partly with Edmund 
Randolph, one of the most distin- 
guished lawyers of Virginia. 
At nineteen years of age, ne 
fli^llf'l commenced the practice of law. 
ei'llaljto His success was rapid and aston- 
ishing. It is said that three 
months had not elapsed ere there 
was scarcely a case on the dock- 
I et of the court in which he was 

I. jt retained. When but twenty-one years of age, he 
was almost unanimously elected to a seat in the State 
Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo- 
cratic party, and warmly advocated the measures of 
Jefferson and Madison. For five successive years he 
was elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the 
unanimous vote or his county. 

When but twenty-six years of age, he was elected 
a member of Congress. Here he acted earnestly and 
ably with the Democratic party, opposing a national 
bank, interoTi imjjrovements by the General <^()vern- 



ment, a protective tariff, and advocating a strict con- 
struction of the Constitution, and the most careful 
vigilance over State rights. His labors in Congress 
were so arduous that before the close of his second 
term he found it necessary to resign and retire to his 
estate in Charles-city Co., to recruit his health. He, 
however, soon after consented to take his seat in the 
State Legislature, where his influence was powerful 
in promoting public works of great utility. VV'ith a 
reputation thus canstantly increasing, he was chosen 
by a very large majority of votes, Governor of his 
native State. His administration was signally a suc- 
cessful one. His popularity secured his re-election. 

John Randolph, a brilliant, erratic, half-crazed 
man, then represented Virginia in the Senate of the 
United States. A portion of the Democratic party 
was displeased with Mr. Randolph's wayward course, 
and brought forward John Tyler as his opponent, 
considering him the only man in Virginia of sufficient 
popularity to succeed against the renowned orator of 
Roanoke. Mr. Tyler was the victor. 

In accordance with his professions, upon taking his 
seat in the Senate, he joined the ranks of the opposi- 
tion. He opposed the tariff; he spoke against and 
voted against the bank as unconstitutional ; he stren- 
uously opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resist- 
ing all projects of internal improvements by the Gen- 
eral Government, and avowed his sympathy with Mr. 
Calhoun's view of nullification ; he declared that Gen. 
Jackson, by his opposition to the nullifiers, had 
abandoned the principles of the Democratic party. 
Such was Mr. Tyler's record in Congress, — a record 
in perfect accordance with the principles which he 
had always avowed. 

Returning to Virginia, he resumed the practice of 
his profession. There was a rplit in the Democrnur 



JOHN TYLER. 



/arty. His friends still regarded him as a true Jef- 
fersonian, gave him a dinner, and showered compli- 
ments upon him. He had now attained the age of 
forty-six. His career had been very brilliant. In con- 
sequence of his devotion to public business, his pri- 
vate affairs had fallen into some disorder; and it was 
not without satisfaction that he resumed the practice 
of law, and devoted himself to the culture of his plan- 
tation. Soon after this he removed to Williamsburg, 
for the better education of his children; and he again 
look his seat in the Legi:>lature of Virginia. 

By the Southern Whigs, he was sent to the national 
convention at Harrisburg to nominate a President in 
'839. The majority of votes were given to Gen. Har- 
rison, a genuine \Vhig, much to the disappointment of 
tde South, wlio wished for Henry Clay. To concili- 
ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the 
convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres- 
ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa- 
thy with the Whig party in the No:th: but the Vice 
President has but very little power in the Govern- 
ment, his main and almost only duty being to pre- 
side over the meetings of the Senate. Thus it hap- 
pened that a Whig President, and, in reality, a 
Democratic Vice President were chosen. 

In 1841, Mr. Tyler was inaugurated Vice Presi- 
dent of the United States. In one short month from 
that time, Presiaent Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler 
thus --and himself, to his own surprise and that of 
the whole Nation, an occupant of the Presidential 
chair. This was a new test of the stability of our 
institutions, as it was the first time in the history of our 
country that such an event had occured. Mr. Tyler 
was at home in Williamsburg when he received the 
unexpected tidings of the death of President Harri- 
son. He hastened to Washington, and on the 6th of 
.'^•-ril vvas inaugurated to the high and responsible 
office. He was placed in a position of exceeding 
delicacy and difficulty. All his long life he had been 
opposed tc the main principles of the party which had 
brought liini into power. He had ever been a con- 
sistent, honcTt man, with an unblemished record. 
Gen. Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should 
he retain them, and thus surround himself with coun- 
sellors whose views were antagonistic to his own? or, 
on the other hand, should he turn against the party 
which had elected him and select a cabinet in har- 
mony with himself, and which would oppose all those 
views which the Whigs deemed essential to the pub- 
lic welfare? This was his fearful dilemma. He in- 
vited the cabinet which President Harjison had 
?elected to retain their seats. He reccommended a 
day of fasting and prayer, that God would guide and 
bless us. 

The Whigs carried through Congress a bill for the 
incorporation of a fiscal hank of the United States. 
The President, after ten days' delay, returned it with 
h's veto. He 'suggested, however, that he would 



approve of a bill drawn up upon such a plan as he 
proposed. Such a bill was accordingly prepared, and 
privately s;ubmitted to him. He gave it his approval. 
It was passed without alteration, ar.d he sent it back 
with his veto. Here commenced the open rupture. 
It is said that Mr. Tyler was provoked to this meas- 
ure by a published letter from the Hon. John M. 
Botts, a distinguished Virginia Whig, who severely 
touched the pride of the President. 

The opposition now exultingly received the Presi- 
dent into their arms. The party which elected him 
denounced him bitterly. All the members of his 
cabinet, excepting Mr. Webster, resigned. The Whigs 
of Congress, both the Senate and the House, held a 
meeting and issued an address to the people of the 
United States, proclaiming that all political alliance 
between the Whigs and President Tyler were at 
an end. 

Still the President attempted to conciliate. He 
appointed a new cabinet of distinguished Whigs and 
Conservatives, carefully leaving out all strong party 
men. Mr. Webster soon found it necessary to resign, 
forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. Thus 
the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra- 
tion ])assed sadly away. JNo one was satisfied. The 
land was filled with murmurs and vituperation. Whigs 
and Democrats alike assailed him. More and more, 
however, he brought himself into sympathy with his 
old friends, the Democrats, until atthe close of his term, 
he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr. 
Polk, the Democratie candidate for his successor. 

On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the 
harassments of office, tothe regret of neither party, and 
probably to liis own unspeakable relief His first wife, 
Miss Letitia Christian, died in Washington, in 1842; 
and in June, 1844, President Tyler was again married, 
at New York, to Miss Julia Gardiner, a young lady of 
many personal and intellectual accomplishments. 

The remainder of his days Mr. Tyler passed mainly 
in retirement at his beautiful home, — Sherwood For- 
est, Charles-city Co., Va. A polished gentleman in 
his manners, richly furnished with information from 
books and experience in the world, and possessing 
brilliant powers of conversation, his family circle was 
the scene of unusual attractions. With sufficient 
means for the exercise of a generous hospitality, he 
might have enjoyed a serene old age with the few 
friends who gathered around him, were it not for the 
storms of civil war which his own principles and 
policy had helped to introduce. 

When the great Rebellion rose, which the State- 
rights and nullifying doctrines of Mr. John C. Ca\- 
houn had inaugurated. President Tyler renounced his 
allegiance to the United States, and joined the Confed- 
erates. He was chosen a member of their Congress; 
and while engaged in active measures to destroy, by 
force of arms, *he Government over which he had 
once presided, he was taken sick and sgon died. 



ELEVENTH PRESIDENT.- 



59 





AMES K. POLK, the eleventh 
President of the United States, 
was born in Mecklenburg Co., 
N. C.,Nov. 2, 1795. His par- 
ents were Samuel and Jane 
(Knox) Polk, the former a son 
of Col. Thomas Polk, who located 
It the above place, as one of the 
first pioneers, in 1735. 

In the year 1006, with his wife 
and children, and soon after fol- 
lowed by most of the members of 
the Polk fainly, Samuel Polk emi- 
grated some two or three hundred 
miles farther west, to the rich valley 
of the Duck River. Here in the 
midst of the wilderness, in a region 
which was subsequently called Mau- 
ry Co., they reared their log huts, 
and established their homes. In the 
hard toil of a new farm in the wil- 
derness, James K. Polk spent the 
f early years of his childhood and 
youth. His father, adding the pur- 
suit of a surveyor to that of a farmer, 
gradually increased in wealth until 
he became one of the leading men of the region. His 
mother was a superior woman, of strong common 
sense and earnest piety. 

Very early in life, James developed a taste for 
reading and expressed the strongest desire to obtain 
a liberal education. His mother's training had made 
him methodical in his habits, had taught him punct- 
uality and industry, and had inspired him with lofty 
principles of morality. His health was frail ; and his 
Eather, fearing that be migiit not be able to endure a 



sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the 
counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits. 

This was to James a bitter disappointment. He 
had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks 
were irksome in the extreme. He remained in this 
uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his 
earnest solicitation his father removed hi», and made 
arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon 
after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy. With 
ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed 
forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half, 
years, in the autumn of 1815, entered the sophomore 
class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel 
Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of 
scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allowing 
himself to be absent from a recitation or a religious 
service. 

He graduated in 1818, with the highest honors, be» 
ing deemed the best scholar of his class, both in 
mathematics and the classics. He was then twenty- 
three years of age. Mr. Polk's health was at this 
time much impaired by the assiduity with which he 
had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of 
relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the 
office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk 
renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who 
resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few 
miles from Nashville. They had probably been 
slightly acquainted before. 

Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican, 
and James K. Polk ever adhered to the same politi- 
cal faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was 
constantly called upon to address the meetings of his 
party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that 
he was popularly called the Napoleon of. the stump. 
He was a man of unblemished morals, genial and 



6o 



JAMES K. POLK. 



courterus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic 
natu'"e in the jo) s and griefs of others which ever gave 
him troops of friends. In 1823, Mr. Polk was elected 
to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his 
strong influence towards the election of his friend, 
Mr. Jackso:i, to tlie Presidency of the United States. 

In January, 1824, Mr. Polk married Miss Sarah 
Childress, of Rutherford Co., Tenn. His bride was 
altogether worthy of him, — a lady of beauty and cul- 
ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a 
member of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave 
to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that 
for fourteen successive years, until 1839, he was con- 
tinuec' in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew, 
only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair 
of I'^nnessee. In Congress he was a laborious 
member, a frequent and a popular speaker. He was 
always in his seat, always courteous ; and whenever 
he spoke it was always to the point, and without any 
ambitious rhetorical display. 

During five sessions of Congress, Mr. Polk was 
Speaker of the House Strong passions were roused, 
and stormy scenes were witnessed ; but Mr Polk per- 
formed his arduous duties to a very general satisfac- 
lion, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was 
passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4tli of 
March, 1839. 

In accordance with Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a 
candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was 
elected by a large majority, and on the 14th of Octo- 
ber, 1839, took the oath of office at Nashville. In 1841, 
his term of office expired, and he was again the can- 
didate of the Democratic party, but was defeated. 

On the 4th of March, 1845, Mr. Polk was inaugur- 
ated President of the United States. The verdict of 
the countryin favor of the annexation of Texas, exerted 
its influence upon Congress ; and the last act of the 
administration of President Tyler was to affix his sig- 
nature to a joint resolution of Congress, passed on the 
3d of March, approving of the annexation of Te.xas to 
the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas 
as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister, 
Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and 
left the country, declaring the act of the annexation 
to be an act hostile to Mexico. 

In his first message. President Polk urged that 
Texas should immediateb-, by act of Congress, be re- 
ceived into the Union on the same footing with the 
Other States. In the meantime, Gen. Taylor was sent 



with an army into Texas to hold the country. He vas 
sent first to Nueces, which the Mexicans said was the 
western boundary of Texas. Then he was sent nearly 
two hundred miles further west, to the Rio Grande, 
where he erected batteries which commanded' the 
Mexican city of Matamoras, which was situated on 
the western banks. 

The anticipated collision soon took place, and wa: 
was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The 
war was pushed forward by Mr. Polk's administration 
with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first 
called one of "observation," then of "occupation," 
then of " invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The 
feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly 
and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement 
alone can reveal the misery which this war caused. 
It v/as by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration 
that the war was brought on. 

'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was 
prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands. 
We now consented to peace upon the condition that 
Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas, 
all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower Cal- 
ifornia. This new demand embraced, exclusive of 
Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. Tliis 
was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the 
size of New York. Thus slavery was securing eighteen 
majestic States to be added to the Union. There were 
some Americans who thought it all right : there were 
others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution 
of this war, we expended twenty thousand lives and 
more than a hundred million of dollars. Of this 
money fifteen millions were paid to Mexico. 

On the 3d of March, 1849, Mr. Polk retired from 
office, having served one term. The next day was 
Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated 
as his successor. Mr Polk rode to the Capitol in the 
same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same even- 
ing, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to 
Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age. 
He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits, 
and his health was good. With an ample fortune, 
a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties 
of the dearest nature, it seemed as though long years 
of tranquility and happiness were before him. Buttlie 
cholera — that fearful scourge — was then sweeping uj) 
the Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted, 
and died on the 15th of June, 1849, in the fiftv-fourth 
year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen. 




'7-ol^A^^^Y cy^t^ ^: 



TWELFTH FUESIDENT. 



63 



'^'^ilIl y%lV^V^V^^\JSv^V•vavaiA•m^ \'"\•^^ ^^ :^3JggS3: ^4A;VAjjV^ v^ ■^^>v^.^^- v^^A^A^.\v^■^ t A^.^vjj ifl^^ P^ 





ACHARY TAYLOR, twelfth 
President of the United States, 
was born on the 24th of Nov., 
1784, in Orange Co., Va. His 
father. Colonel Taylor, was 
'^'~ a Virginian of note, and a dis- 
^^i g-ji tinguished patriot and soldier of 
^^T'^'^^ the Revolution. When Zachary 
was an infant, his father with liis 
wife and two children, emigrated 
to Kentucky, where he settled in 
the pathless wilderness, a few 
miles from Louisville. \n this front- 
ier home, away from civilization and 
all its refinements, young Zachary 
could enjoy but few social and educational advan- 
tages. When six years of age he attended a common 
school, and was then regarded as a bright, active boy, 
rather remarkable for bUintness and decision of char- 
acter He was strong, feailess and self-reliant, and 
manifested a strong desire to enter tlie army to fight 
the Lidians who were ravaging the frontiers. There 
is little to be recorded of the uneventful years of his 
childhood ua his father's large but lonely plantation. 
In 1808, his father succeeded in obtaining for him 
the commission of lieutenant in the United States 
army ; and lie joined the troops which were stationed 
at New Orleans under Gen. Wilkinson. Soon after 
this he married Miss Margaret Smith, a young lady 
from one of the first families of Maryland. 

Immediately after the declaration of war with Eng- 
land, in 18 1 2, Capt. Taylor (for he had then been 
promoted to that rank) was put in command of Fort 
Harrison, on the Wabash, about fifty miles above 
Vincennes. This fort had been built in the wilder- 
ness by Gen. Harrison, on his march to Tippecanoe. 
It was one of the first points of attack by the Indians, 
5cd by Tecuoiseh. Its garrison consisted of a broken 



company of infantry numbering fifty men, many of 
whom were sick. 

Early in the autumn of i8t2, the Indians, stealthily, 
and in large numbers, moved upon the fort. Their 
approach was first indicated by the murder of two 
soldiers just outside of the stockade. Capt. Taylor 
made every possible preparation to meet the antici- 
pated assault. On the 4th of September, a band of 
forty painted and plumed savages came to the fort, 
waving a white flag, and informed Capt. Taylor that 
in the morning their chief would come to have a talk 
with him. It was evident that their object was merely 
to ascertain the state of things at the fort, and Capt. 
Taylor, well versed in the wiles of the savages, kept 
them at a distance. 

The sun went down ; the savages disappeared, the 
garrison slept upon their arms. One hour before 
midnight the war whoop burst from a thousand lips 
in the forest around, followed by the discharge of 
musketry, and the rush of the foe. Every man, sick 
and well, sprang to his post. Every man knew that 
defeat was not merely death, but in the case of cap- 
ture, death by the most agonizing and prolonged tor- 
ture. No pen can describe, no immagination can 
conceive the scenes which ensued. The savages suc- 
ceeded in setting fire to one of the block houses- 
Until six o'clock in the morning, this awful conflict 
continued. The savages then, baffled at every point, 
and gnashing their teeth with rage, retired. Capt. 
Taylor, for this gallant defence, was promoted to the 
rank of major by brevet. 

Until the close of the war, MajorTaylor was placed 
in such situations that he saw but little more of active 
service. He was sent far away into the depths of the 
wilderness, to Fort Crawford, on Fox River, which 
empties into Green Bay. Here there was but little 
to be done but to wear away the tedious hours as one 
best could. There were no books, no society, no in- 



64 



ZACHARY TAYLOR. 



tellectual stimulus. Thus with him the uneventful 
years rolled on Gradually he rose to the rank of 
colonel. In the Black Hawk war, which resulted in 
the capture of that renowned chieftain, Col Taylor 
took a subordinate but a brave and efficient part. 

For twenty-four years Col. Taylor was engaged in 
the defence of the frontiers, in scenes so remote, and in 
jemployments so obscure, that his name was unknown 
beyond the limits of h;? own immediate acquaintance. 
In the year 1836, he was sent to Florida to compel 
the Seminole Indians to vacate that region and re- 
tire beyond the Mississippi, as their chiefs by treaty, 
iiac" promised they should do. The services rendered 
he.e secured for Col. Taylor the high appreciation of 
(he Government; and as a reward, he was elevated 
!c he rank of brigadier-general by brevet ; and soon 
after, in May, 1838, was appointed to the chief com- 
aianci of the United States troops in Florida. 

After two years of sucli wearisome employment 
(tmidst the everglades of the peninsula, Gen. Taylor 
obtained, at his own request, a change of command, 
>nd was stationed over the Department of the Suuth- 
'Acst. This field embraced Louisiana, Mississippi, 
.Alabama and Georgia. Establishing his headquarters 
jtl Fort Jessup, in Louisiana, he removed his family 
fo a plantation which he purchased, near Baton Rogue. 
'■Ii:re he remained for five years, buried, as it were, 
fii.m the world, but faithfully discharging every duty 
virs posed upon him. 

In 1846, Gen. Taylor was sent to guard the land 
between the Nueces and Rio Grande, the latter river 
jbeing the boundary of Texas, which was then claimed 
by the United States. Soon the war with Me.xico 
wt,3 brought on, and at Palo Alto and Resaca de la 
Pa!ma, Gen. Taylor won brilliant victories over the 
M>;xicans. The rank of major-general by brevet 
was then conferred upon Gen. Taylor, and his name 
VI as received with entiuisiasm almost everywhere in 
the Nation. Then came tlie battles of Monterey and 
E uena Vista in which he won signal victories over 
fcjrces much larger than he commanded. 

His careless habits of d'ess and his unaffected 
si;nplicity, secured for Gen. Taylor among his troops, 
Xks. sobriquet of "Old Rouglt and Ready.' 

The tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista 
sjjread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. 'I"he 
n;ime of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The 
W hig party decided to take advantage of this wonder- 
fii( popularity in bringing forward the unpolished, un- 

•'^red, honest soldier as their candidate for the 
I'lesidency. Gen. Taylor was astonished at the au- 
nt uncement, and for a time would not listen toil; de- 
chiring that he was not at all qualified for such an 
oft ice. So little interest had he taken in |)olitics that, 
foi forty years, he had net cast a vote. It was not 
without chagrin that several distinguished statesmen 
v/l.o had been long vears in the public service found 
•i.ar claims set aside in behalf of one whose name 



had never been heard of, save in connection with Palo 
Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterey and Buena 
Vista. It is said that Daniel Webster, in his haste re- 
marked, " It is a nomination not fit to be made." 

Gen. Taylor was not an eloquent speaker nor a fine 
writer His friends took possession of him, and pre- 
pared such few communications as it was needful 
should be presented to the public. The jx)pularity of 
the successful warrior swept the land. He was tri- 
umphantly elected over two opposing candidates, — 
Gen. Cass and E.x-President Martin Van Buren. 
Though he selected an excellent cabinet, the good 
old man found himself in a very uncongenial position, 
and was, at times, sorely perplexed and harassed. 
His mental sufferings were very severe, and probably 
tended to hasten his death. The pro-slavery party 
was pushing its claims with tireless energy, expedi- 
tions were fitting out to capture Cuba ; California was 
pleading for admission to the Union, while slavery 
stood at the door to bar her out. Gen. Taylor found 
the political conflicts in Washington to be far more 
trying to the nerves than battles with Mexicans or 
Indians 

In the midst of all these troubles. Gen. Taylor, 
after he had occupied the Presidential chair but little 
over a year, took cold, and after a brief sickness of 
but little over five days, died on the 9th of Jnly, 1850. 
His last woids were, " I am not afraid to die. I am 
ready. I have endeavored to do my duty." He died 
universally respected and beloved. An honest, un- 
pretending man, he had been steadily growing in the 
affections of the people; and the Nation bitterly la- 
mented his death. 

Gen. Scott, who was thoroughly acquainted with 
Gen. Taylor, gave tlie following graphic and truthful 
description of his character: — " With a good store of 
common sense. Gen. Taylor's mind had not been en- 
larged and refreshed by reading, or much converse 
with the world. Rigidity of ideas was the conse- 
quence. The frontiers and small military posts had 
been his home. Hence he was quite ignorant for his 
rank, and quite bigoted in his ignorance. His sim- 
plicity was child-like, and with innumerable preju- 
dices, amusing and incorrigible, well suited to the 
tender age. Thus, if a man, however respectable, 
chanced to wear a coat of an unusual color, or his hat 
a little on one side of his head; or an officer to leave 
a corner of his handkerchief dangling from an out- 
side pocket, — in any such case, this critic held the 
olT^-nder to be a coxcomb (perhaps something worse), 
whom he would not, to use his oft repeated phrase, 
' touch with a pair of tongs.' 

"Any allusion to literature beyond good old Dil- 
worth's spelling-book, on the part of one wearing a 
sword, was evidence, with the same judge, of utter 
unfitness for heavy marchings and combats. Inshorf 
few men have ever had a more comfortaD^'T, l^ivw. 
saving contempt for learning of every kind." 




^..^^tJ-^^j^i/ jCci^^i.-t..txru) 



THIRTEENTH PRESIDENT. 



67 





I ^'MILLftRn FILLMnRE.'^ | 

'''i....^ ..„^ „.,^ .,„, „„. -,.„ -,„.^ -,,.,. .„„ ^,.,, .,„^ .,.,, „.„ ^„„ ^.,<, „,„''i^' ' ""iii 







ILLARD FILLMORE, thir- 
teenth President of the United 
States, was born at Smnnier 
Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on 
the 7th of Januar)-, 1800. His 
father was a farmer, and ow- 
ing to misfortune, in humble cir- 
cumstances. Of his mother, the 
daughter of Dr. Abiathar Millard, 
of Pittsfield, Mass., it has been 
said that she jxjssessed an intellect 
of very high order, united with much 
personal loveliness, sweetness of dis- 

fposit'on, graceful manners and ex- 
quisite sensibilities. She died in 
^ '831 ; having lived to see her son a 
' young man of distinguished prom- 
li^e, though she was not permitted to witness the high 
dignity which he finally attained. 

In consequence of the secluded home and limited 
means of his father, Millard enjoyed but slender ad- 
vantages for education in his early years. The com- 
mon schools, iv!ii( h he occasiona'ly attended were 
very imperfect nistitutions; and books were scarce 
and expensive. Tliere was nothing tiien in his char- 
acter to indicate the brilliant career upon which he 
was about to enter. He was a plain farmer's boy ; 
intelligent, good-looking, kind-hearted. The sacred 
influences of home had taught him to revere the Bible, 
and liad laid Ihe foundations of an upright character. 
When fourteen years of age, his father sent him 
some hundred miles from home, to tiie then wilds o^ 
Livingston County, to learn the trade of a clothier. 
Neai the mill there was a small villiage, wherp some 



enterprising man had commenced the collection of a 
village librar)'. This proved an inestimable blessing 
to young Fillmore. His evenings were spent in read- 
ing. .Soon every leisure moment was occupied with 
books. His thirst for knowledge became insatiate 
and the selections which he made were continually 
more elevating and instructive. He read history, 
biography, oratory, and thus gradually there was en- 
kindled in his heart a desire to be something more 
than a mere worker with his hands; and he was be- 
coming, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed, 
educated man. 

The young clothier had now attained the age of 
nineteen years, and was of fine personal appearance 
and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened tha'. 
there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample 
pecuniary means and of benevolence, — Judge ^Valter 
Wood, — who was struck with the prepossessing ap- 
pearance of young Fillmore. He made his acquaint- 
ance, and was so much impressed with his ability and 
attainments that he advised him to alxindon his. 
trade and devote himself to the study of the law. The 
young man replied, that he had no means of his own, 
r.o friends to help him and that his previous educa- 
tion had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood had 
so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to 
take him into his own office, and to loan him such 
money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous 
offer was accepted. 

There is in many minds a strange delusion abouti 
a collegiate education. A young man is supposed to 
be liberally educated if he has graduated at some col- 
lege. But many a boy loiters through university hal" 
Hnd then enters a law office, wlio is by no means as 



MILLARD FILLMORE. 



well prepared to prosecute his legal studies as was 

Millard Fillniore when he graduated at the clothing- 
mill at the end of four years of manual labor, during 
which every leisure moment had been devoted to in- 
tense mental culture. 

In 1S23, when twenty-three years of age, he v/as 
admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then 
went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the 
practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region, 
his practice of course was limited, and there was no 
opportunity for a sudden rise in fortune or in fame. 
Here, in the year 1826, he married a lady of great 
moral worth, and one capable of adorning any station 
she might be called to fill, — Miss Abigail Powers. 

His elevation of character, his untiring industry, 
his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate, 
gradually attracted attention ; and he was invited to 
enter into partnership under highly advantageous 
circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in 
Buffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1829, 
he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the 
State of New York, as a representative from Erie 
County. Though he had never taken a very active 
part in jKilitics, his vote and his sympathies were with 
the Whig party. The State was then Democratic, 
and he found himself in a helpless minority in the 
Legislature , still the testimony comes from all parties, 
that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very 
unusual degri e the respect of his associates. 

In the autumn of 1832, he was elected to a seat in 
Ihe United States Congress He entered that troubled 
arena in some of the most tumultuous hours of our 
national history. The great conflict respecting the 
national bank and the removal of the deposits, was 
then raging. 

His term of two years closed ; and he returned to 
liis profession, which he pursued with increasing rep- 
utation and success. After a lapse of two years 
he again became a candidate for Congress ; was re- 
elected, and took his seat in 1837. His past expe- 
rience as a representative gave hmi stiength and 
confidence. The first term of service in Congress to 
any man can be but little more than an introduction. 
He was now prepared for active duty. All his ener- 
gies were brought to bear ui»n the public good. Every 
measure received his impress. 

Mr. Fillmore was now a man of wide repute, and 
his popularity filled the State, and in the year 1847, 
he was elected Comptroller of the State. 



Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven 
years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in 
Congress and as Comptroller, had given him very con- 
siderable fame. The Whigs were casting about to 
find suitable candidates for President and Vice-Presi- 
dent at the approaching election. Far away, on the 
waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old 
soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles 
with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to l>e 
proclaimed in tiumpet-tones all over the land. But 
it was necessary to associate with him on the san:e 
ticket some man of reputation as a statesman. 

Under the influence of these considerations, tlie 
namesofZachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore became 
the rallying-cry of the Whigs, as their candidates for 
President and Vice-Peesident. The Whig ticket was 
signally triumphant. On the 4th of March, 1849, 
Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard 
Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States. 

On the 9th of July, 1850, President Taylor, but 
about one year and four months after his inaugura 
tion, was suddenly taken sick and died. By the Con- 
stitution, Vice-President Fillmore thus became Presi- 
dent. He appointed a very able cabinet, of which 
the illustrious Daniel Webster was Secretary' of State. 

Mr. Fillniore had very serious difficulties to contend 
with, since the op{X)sition had a majority in both 
Houses. He did everything in his power to con< iliate 
the South; but the pro-slavery party in the South felt 
the inadequacyof all measuresof transient conciliation. 
The population of the free States was so rapidly in- 
creasing over that of the slave States that it was in- 
evitable that the power of the Government should 
soon pass into the hands of the free States. The 
famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr. 
Fillmore's adminstration, and the Japan Expeditiori 
was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr. Fill- 
more, having served one term, retired. 

In 1856, Mr. Fillmore was nominated for the Pres- 
idency by the " Know Nothing " party, but was beaten 
by Mr. Buchanan. After that Mr. Fillmore lived in 
retirement. During the terrible conflict of civil war, 
he was mostly silent. It was generally supjxised tha> 
his sympathies were rather with those who were en- 
deavoring to overthrow our institutions. President 
Fillmore kept aloof from the conflict, without any 
cordial words of cheer to the one party or the other. 
He was thus forgotten by both. He lived to a ri])e 
old age, and died in Buffalo. N. V., March 8, 1874. 





'y-^U^ ^-tC^ 



FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT. 



71 







e ^FfiflNKLIN PIEHCE.^4 















;-i RANKLIN PIERCE, the 
IJ) fourteenth President of the 
J" United States, was bom in 
Hillsborough, N. H., Nov, 
23, 1804. His father was a 
Revolutionary soldier, who, 
with his own strong arm, 
hewed out a home in the 
wilderness. He was a man 
of inflexible integrity; of 
strong, though uncultivated 
mind, and an uncompromis- 
ing Democrat. The mother of 
Franklin Pierce was all that a son 
could desire, — an intelligent, pru- 
dent, affectionate, Christian wom- 
an. Franklin was the sixth of eight children. 

Franklin was a very bright and handsome boy, gen- 
erous, warm-hearted and brave. He won alike the 
love of old and young. The boys on the play ground 
loved him. His teachers loved him. The neighbors 
looked upon him with pride and affection. ' He was 
by instinct a gentleman; always speaking kind words, 
doing kind deeds, with a peculiar unstudied tact 
which taught him what was agreeable. VVitliout de- 
veloping any precocity of genius, or any unnatural 
devotion to books, he was a good scholar; in body, 
in mind, in affections, a finely-developed boy. 

When sixteen years of age, in the year 1820, he 
entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Me He was 
one of the most ]X)pular young men in the college. 
The purity cf his moral character, the unvarying 
courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and 



genial nature, rendered him a universal favorite. 
There was something very peculiarly winning in his 
address, and it was evidently not in the slightest de- 
gree studied : it was the simple outgushing of his 
own magnanimous and loving nature. 

Upon graduating, in the year 1824, Franklin Pierce 
commenced the study of law in the office of Judge 
Woodbury, one of the most distinguished lawyers of 
the State, and a man of great private worth. The 
eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his 
father's prominence as a public man, and the brilliant 
political career into which Judge Woodbury was en- 
tering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the faci- 
nating yet perilous path of political life. With all 
the ardor of his nature he esjxmsed the cause of Gen. 
Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the 
practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected 
to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here 
he served for four yeais. The last two years he was 
chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote. 

In 1833, at the age of twenty-nine, he was elected 
a member of Congress. Without taking an active 
part in debates, he was faithful and laborious in duty 
and ever rising in the estimation of those with whom 
he was associatad. 

In 1837, being then but thirty-three years of age, 
he was elected to the Senate of the United States; 
taking his seat just as Mr. Van Buren commenced 
his administration. He was the youngest member in 
the Senate. In the year 1834, he married Miss Jane 
Means Appleton, a lady of rare beauty and accom- 
plishments, and one admirably fitted to adorn every 
station with which her husband was honoied. Of the 



72 



hRANKLIN PIERCE. 



three sons who were born to them, all now sleep with 
their parents in the grave. 

In the year 1838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame 
and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his 
residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire. 
President Polk, upon his accession to office, appointed 
Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States; but 
the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous 
professional engagements at home, and the precariuos 
■state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the 
same time declined the nomination for governor by the 
Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr. 
Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of 
brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his 
troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of May, 1847. 
He took an imix)rtant part in this war, proving him- 
self a brave and true soldier. 

When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native 
State, he was received enthusiastically by the advo- 
cates of the Mexican war, and coldly by his oppo- 
nents. He resumed the practice of his profession, 
very frequently taking an active part in political ques- 
tions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery 
wing of the Democratic party. The compromise 
measures met cordially with his approval; and he 
strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infa- 
mous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious 
sensibilities of the North. He thus became distin- 
guished as a " Northern man with Southern principles.'' 
The strong partisans of slavery in the South conse- 
quently regarded him as a man whom they could 
•afely trust in office to carry out their plans. 

On the 1 2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven- 
tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the 
Presidency. For four days they continued in session, 
and in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a 
two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown 
for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation 
brought forward his name. There were fourteen 
more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly 
gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he 
received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all 
other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was 
the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with 
great unanimity. Only four States — Vermont, Mas- 
sachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee — cast their 
electoral votes against him Gen. Franklin Pieice 
was therefore inaugurated President of the United 
States on tlie 4th of March, 1853. 



His administration proved one of the most stormy our 
country had ever experienced. The controversy be 
tween slavery and freedom was then approaching its 
culminating ixjint. It became evident that there was 
an " irrepressible conflict " between them, and that 
this Nation could not long exist " half slave and half 
free." President Pierce, during the whole of his ad- 
ministration, did every thing he could to conciliate 
the South ; but it was all in vain. The conflict every 
year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution 
of the Union were borne to the North on every South 
em breeze. 

Such was the condition of affairs when President 
Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term 
of office. The North had become thoroughly ;ilien- 
ated from him. The anti-slavery sentiment, goaded 
by great outrages, had been rapidly increasing; ;.li 
the intellectual ability and social worth of President 
Pierce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his ad- 
ministrative acts. The slaveholders of the South, also, 
unmindful of the fidelity with which he had advo- 
cated those measures of Government which they ap- 
proved, and perhaps, also, feeling that he had 
rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be 
able acceptably to serve them, ungratefully dropped 
him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed him. 

On the 4th of March, 1857, President Pierce re- 
tired to his home in Concord. Of three children, two 
had died, and his only surviving child had been 
killed before his eyes by a railroad accident , and his 
wife, one of the most estimable and accomplished of 
ladies, was rapidly sinking in consumption. The 
hour of dreadful gloom soon came, and he was left 
alone in the world, without wife or child. 

When the terrible Rebellion burst forth, which di- 
vided our country into two parties, and two only, Mr. 
Pierce remained steadfast in the principles which he 
had always cherished-, and gave his sympathies to 
that pro-slaver)' party with which he had ever been 
allied. He declined to do anything, either by voice 
or pen, to strengthen the hand of the National Gov- 
ernment. He continued to reside in Concord until 
the time of his death, which occurred in Oclol er, 
1869. He was one of the most genial and social oi 
men, an honored communicant of the Episcopni 
Church, and one of the kindest of neighbors. Gen- 
erous to a fault, he contributed libeially for the al- 
leviation of sufl"eringand want, and many of his towns- 
people were often gladened by his material bounty. 





^-^/z^J ^i^^ur ;^/^2 ^y-r^ 



I'IFTEENTH PRESIDENT 



W 








««( 



®\~. 



:. •. 'i . ^J:^'^'Vc5Jl^?X.'^al'>^X^'lSU'^a.'»^^\5g^^^ ' 



"^ 



-SH- 




AMES BUCHANAN, the fif- 
jteenth President of the United 
States, was born in a small 
frontier town, at the foot of the 
eastern ridge of the AUegha- 
nies, in Franklin Co., Penn., on 
tlie 23d of April, 1791. The place 
wliere the humble cabin of his 
father stuod was called Stony 
Batter. It was a wild and ro- 
mantic spot in a gorge of the moun- 
tains, with towering summits rising 
grandly all around. His father 
was a native of the north of Ireland ; 
a poor man, who had emigrated in 
1783, with little property save liis 
own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married 
Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer, 
and, with his young bride, plunged into tlie wilder- 
ness, staked his claim, reared his log-hut, opened a 
clearing with his axe, and settled down there to per- 
form his obscure part in the drama of life. In this se- 
cluded home, where James was born, lie remained 
for eight years, enjoying but few social or intellectual 
advantagis. When James was eight years of age, his 
father removed to the village of Mercersburg, where 
his son was placed at school, and commenced a 
course of study in English, Latin and Greek. His 
progress was rapid, and at the age of fourteen, he 
entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle. Here he de- 
veloped remarkable talent, and took his stand among 
the first scholars in the institution. His application 
'to study was intense, and yet his native ]X)wers en- 



abled him to master the most abstruse subjects wi '- 
facility. 

In the year 1809, he graduated with the liighesi 
honors of his clas^. He was then eighteen years o( 
age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of 
athletic sport, an unerring shot, and enlivened with 
an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately 
commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster, 
and was admitted to the bar in 1812, when he was 
but twenty-one ) ears of age. Very rapidly he rose 
in his profession, and at once took undisputed stand 
with the ablest law) ers of the State. When but 
twenty-six years of age, unaided by counsel, he suc- 
cessfully defended before the State Senate oie of the 
judges of tlie State, who was tried upon articles 01 
impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally 
admitted that he stood at the head of the bar; and 
there was no lawyer in the State who had a more lu- 
crative practice. 

In 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a 
candidate for Congress. He was elected, and foi 
ten years he remained a member of the Lower House 
During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally 
tried some important case. In 1831, he retired 
altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac- 
quired an ample fortune. 

Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation tollie Presidency, 
ap|)ointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The 
duties of his mission he performed with ability, whiclv 
gave satisfaction to all parties. Upon his return, it,, 
1833, he was elected to a seat in the United States 
Senate. He there met, as his associates, Webster, 
Clay, Wright and Calhoun. He advocated tl'.e meas- 
ures proposed by President Jackson, of in iUng repri- 



JO 



JAMES BUCHANAN. 



sals against France, to enforce the payment of our 
claims against that countr)- ; and defended the course 
of the President in his unprecedented and wholesale 
removal from office of those who were not the sup- 
porters of his administration. Upon this question he 
was brought into direct collision with He;uy Clay. 
He also, with voice and vote, advocated expunging 
from the journal of the Senate the vote of censure 
against Gen. Jackson for removing the deposits. 
Earnestly he opposed the abolition of slavery in the 
District of Columbia, and urged the prohibition of the 
circulation of anti-slavery documents by the United 
States mails. 

As to petitions on the subject of slavery, he advo- 
cated that they should be respectfully received; and 
that the reply should be returned, that Congress had 
no ixiwer to legislate upon the subject. " Congress," 
said he, " might as well undertake to interfere with 
slavery under a foreign government as in any of the 
States where it now e.xists." 

Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presidency, Mr. 
Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such, 
took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of 
the Mexican War. Mr. Polk assumed that crossing 
the Nueces by the American troops into the disputed 
territory was not wrong, but for the Mexicans to cross 
the Rio Grande into that territory was a declaration 
of war. No candid man can read with pleasure the 
account of the course our Government pursued in that 
movement 

Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly with 
the party devoted to the perpetuation and extension 
of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind 
to bear agdinst the Wilmot Proviso. He gave his 
cordial approval to the compromise measures of 1850, 
which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce, 
upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr. 
Buchanan with the mission to England. 

In the year 1856, a national Democratic conven- 
tion nominated Mr. Buchanan for the Presidency. The 
political conflict was one of the most severe in which 
our country has ever engaged. .\11 the friends of 
slaver)' were on one side ; all the advocates of its re- 
striction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fre- 
mont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re- 
reived 114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received 
174, and was elected. The popular vote stood 
1,340,618, for Fremont, 1,224,750 for Buchanan. On 
March 4th. 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated. 

Mr. Buchanan was far advanced in life. Only four 
vears were wanting to fill up his threescore years and 
ten. His own friends, those with whom he had been 
allied in political principles and action for years, were 
seeking the destruction of the Government, that they 
might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a 
nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery. 
In this emergency, Mr. Buchanan was hopelessly be- 
vsoldered He could not, with his long-avowed prin- 



ciples, consistently oppose the State-rights party in 
their assumptions. As President of the United States, 
bound by his oath faithfully to administer the laws 
he could not, without perjury of the grossest kind, 
unite with those endeavoring to overthrow the repub- 
lic. He therefore did nothing. 

The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration 
nominated .Abraham Lincoln as their standard bearer 
in the next Presidential canvass. The pro-slavery 
party declared, that if he were elected, and the con- 
trol of the Government were thus taken from their 
hands, they would secede from the Union, taking 
with them, as they retired, the National Capitol at 
Washington, and the lion's share of the territory of 
the United States. 

Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slaverj' 
party was such, that he had been willing to oflferthem 
far more than they had ventured to claim. All the 
South had professed to ask of the North was non- 
intervention upon the subject of slaverj'. Mr. Bu- 
chanan had been ready to offer them the active co- 
operation of the Government to defend and extend 
the institution. 

As the storm increased in violence, the slaveholders 
claiming the right to secede, and Mr. Buchatian avow- 
ing that Congress had no [X)wer to prevent it, one of 
the most pitiable exhibitions of governmental im- 
becility was exhibited the world has ever seen. He 
declared that Congress had no (xjwer to enforce its 
laws in any State which had withdrawn, or which 
was attempting to withdraw from the Union. This 
was not the doctrine of Andrew Jackson, when, with 
his hand ujxjn his sword-hilt, he e.\ciaimed. " The 
Union must and shall be preserved!" 

South Carolina seceded in December, i860; nearly 
three months before the inauguration of President 
Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair. 
The rebel flag was raised in Charleston; Fort Sumpter 
was besieged; our forts, navy -yards and arsenals 
were seized ; our depots of military stores were plun- 
dered ; and our custom-houses and post-offices were 
appropriated by the rebels. 

The energy of the rebels, and the imbecility of our 
Executive, were alike marvelous. The Nation looked 
on in agony, waiting for the slow weeks to glide away, 
and close the administration, so terrible in its weak- 
ness At length the long-looked-for hour of deliver- 
ance came, when Abraham Lincoln was to receive the 
scepter. 

The administration of President Buchanan was 
certainly the most calamitous our country has ex- 
perienced. His best friends cannot recall it with 
pleasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame, 
that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows 
of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came 
from his lips to indicate his wish that our country's 
banner should tri\im|h over the flag of the rebellion 
He died at his Wheatland retreat, J.ine i, 186S. 



I 



V:. 



P W 




4, 



'^j^-^f. 



r <^ 



e/^^^^^T^ 



SIXTEENTH FRES/DENT. 



79 




^ < ABRAHAM > H>f>^ < LINCOLN. 1> | 




'^3^4\j^^i 



Ml 






BRAHAM LINCOLN, the 
sixteenth President of tlie 
ed States, was born in 
Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. 12, 
1809. About the year 1780, a 
man by the name of Abraham 
Lincohi left Virginia with his 
' ^ family and moved into the then 
^ wildsof Kentucky. Only two years 
after this emigration, still a young 
man, while working one day in a 
field, was stealthily a|ipro2ched by 
an Indian andshot dead. His widow 
was left in extreme poverty with five 
little children, three boys and two 
girls. Thomas, the youngest of the 
^i& boys, was four years of age at his 
fejg) father's death. Tiiis Thomas was 
J the father of Abraham Lincoln, the 
' President of the United States 
whose name must henceforth fo^-ever be enrolled 
with the m(jst prominent in the annals of our world. 
Of course no record has been kept of the life 
of one so lowly as Thomas Lincoln. He was among 
the poorest of the poor. His home was a wretched 
log-cabin; his food the coarsest and the meanest. 
Education he had none; he could never either read 
or write. As soon as he was able to do anything for 
himself, he was compelled to leave the cabin of his 
starving mother, and push out into the world, a friend- 
.ess, wandering boy, seeking work. He hired him- 
self out, and thus spent the whole of his youth as a 
?iborer in the fields of others. 

When twenty-eight years of age he buili a log- 
« ibin of his own, and married Nancy Hanks, the 
daughter of another family of poor Kentucky emi- 
grants, who iiad also come from Virginia. Their 
second child was .\braham Lincoln, the subject of 
this sketch. The mother of Abraham was a noble 
woman, gentle, loving, pensive, created to adorn 
a palace, doomed to toil and pine, and die in a hovel. 
"All that I am, or hope to be," e.xclaims the grate- 
ful son " I owe to my angel-mother. 

When he was eight years of age, his father sold his 



cabin and small farm, and moved to Indiar.a Wher=: 
two years later his mother died. 

Abraham soon became the scribe of the uneducated 
community around hin). He could not have had a 
better school than this to teach him to put thoughts 
into words. He also became an eager reader. The 
books he could obtain were few; but these he "ead 
and re-read until they were almost committed tc 
memory. 

As the years rolled on, the lot of this lowly fan.ilj 
was the usual lot of humanity. There were joys and 
griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sister 
.Sarah, to whom he was tenderly attached, was mai 
ried when a child of but fourteen years of age, anc 
soon died. The family was gradually scattered. Mr 
Thomas Lincoln sold out his squatter's claim in 1830 
and emigrated to Macon Co., 111. 

Abraham Lincoln was then twenty-one years of age. 
With vigorous hands he aided his father in rearing 
another log-cabin. Abraham worked diligently at this 
until he saw the family comfortably settled, and theii 
small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, when 
he announced to his father his intention to leave 
home, and to go out into the world and seek his for-- 
tune. Little did he or his friends imagine how bril- 
liant that fortune was to be. He saw the value o( 
education and was intensely earnest to improve his 
mind to the utmost of his power. He saw the ruin 
which ardent spirits were causing, and became 
strictly temperate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxi- 
cating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read in 
God's word, "Thou shalt not take the name of the. 
Lord thy God in v.,,.;" and a profane expression h6 
was never heard to utter. Religion he revered. His 
morals were pure, and he was uncontarainated by a 
single vice. 

Young Abraham woiked for a time as a hired labora 
among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield 
where he was employed in building a large flat-boat 
In this he took a herd of swine, floated them dowi 
the Sangamon to the Illinois, and thence by the Mia 
sissippi to New Orleans. Whatever Abraham Liii 
coin undertook, he performed so faithfully as to giv«. 
great satisfaction to his employers. In this adven 



8o 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 



ture his employers were so well pleased, that upon 
his return tney placed a store and mill under his care. 

In 1832, at the oatbreak of the Black Hawk war, he 
enlisted and was chosen captain of a company. He 
returned to Sangamon County, and although only 23 
yeais of age, was a candidate for the Legislature, but 
was defeated. He soon after received from Andrew 
Jackson the appointment of Postmaster of New Salem, 
His only post-office was his hat. All the letters he 
received he carried there ready to deliver to those 
he chanced to meet. He studied surveying, and soon 
made this his business. In 1834 he again became a 
candidate for the Legislature, and was elected Mr. 
Stuart, of Springfield, advised him to study law. He 
walked from New Salem to Springfield, borrowed of 
Mr. Stuart a load of books, carried them back and 
began his legal studies. When the Legislature as- 
sembled he trudged on foot with his pack on his back 
one hundred miles to Vandalia, then the capital. In 
1836 he was re-elected to the Legislature. Here it 
was he first met .Stephen A. Douglas. In 1839 he re- 
moved to Springfield and began the practice of law. 
His success with the jury was so great that he was 
soon engaged in almost every noted case in the circuit. 

In 1854 the great discussion began between Mr. 
Lincoln and Mr. Douglas, on the slavery question. 
In the organization of the Republican party in Illinois, 
in 1856, he took an active |)art, and at once became 
one of the leaders in that party. Mr. Lincoln's 
speeches in opposition to Senator Douglas in the con- 
test in 1858 for a seat in the Senate, form a most 
notable part of his history. The issue was on the 
slavery question, and he took the broad ground of 
;he Declaration of Independence, that all men are 
created equal. Mr. Lincoln was defeated in this con- 
test, but won a far higher prize. 

The great Republican Convention met at Chicago 
on the 1 6th of June, i860. The delegates and 
strangers who crowded the city amounted to twenty- 
five thousand. .\n immense building called "The 
Wigwam," was reared to accommodate the Conven- 
tion. There were eleven candidates for whom votes 
were thrown. William H. Seward, a man whose fame 
as a statesman had long filled the land, was the most 
prominent. It was generally supposed he would be 
the nominee. Abraham Lincoln, however, received 
the nomination on the third ballot. Little did he then 
dream of the weary years of toil and care, and the 
bloody death, to which that nomination doomed him: 
and aslittle did lie dream that lie was to render services 
to his country, which would fix upon him tlie eyes of 
the whole civilized world, and which would give him 
aplaceinthe affections of his countrymen, second 
(.nly, if second, to that of Washington. 

Election day came and Mr. Lincoln received 180 
electoral votes out of 203 cast, and was, therefore, 
constitutionally elected President of the United States. 
The tirade of abuse that was poured uix>n this good 



and merciful man, especially by the slaveholders, was 
greater than upon any other man ever elected to this 
high position. In February, 1861, Mr. Lincoln started 
for Washmglon, stopping in all tlie large cities on his 
way making speeches. The wiiole journey was frought 
with much danger. Many of the Southern States had 
already seceded, and several attempts at assassination 
were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Balti- 
more had arranged, iqxm his arrival to" get up a row," 
and in the confusion to make sure of his death with 
revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled 
the plot. -A secret and special train was provided to 
take him from HarrisL'urg, through Baltimore, at ar 
unexpected hour of the night. The train started at 
half-past ten ; and to prevent any possible communi- 
cation on the part ot tlie Secessionists with their Con- 
federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train haa 
started the telegraph-wires were cut. Mr. Lincoln 
reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated, 
altiiough great anxiety was felt by all loyal people. 

In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave 
to Mr Seward the Department of State, and to other 
prominent opponents before the convention he gave 
important positions. 

During no other administration have the duties 
devolving upon the President been so manifold, and 
the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to 
the lot of President Lincoln. Knowing this, and 
feeling liis own weakness and inability to meet, and in 
his own strength to cope with, the difficulties, he 
learned early to seek Divine wisdom and guidance in 
determining his plans, and Divine comfort in all his 
trials, bo^h personal and national. Contrary to his 
own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the 
most courageous of men. He went directly into the 
rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving, 
with no guard but a few sailors. From the time he 
had left Springfield, in 1861, however, plans had been 
made for his assassination, and he at last fell a victim 
tooneofthein. April 14, 1865, he, with Gen. Grant, 
was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It 
was announced that they would l^e present. Gen. 
Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel- 
ing, witli his characteristic kindliness of heart, that 
it would be a disapi»intment if he should fail them, 
very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to 
the play an actor by the uame of John W^ilkes Booth 
entered the box where the President and family were 
seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the 
next morning at seven o'clock. 

Never before, in the history of the world was a nation 
plunged into such deep grief by the death of its ruler. 
Strong men met in the streets and wept in speechless 
anguish. It is not too much to say that a nation was 
in tears. His was a life which will fitly become a 
model. His name as the savior of his country "-ill 
live with that of Washington's, its father; hisco'-.ntry- 
mer. being unable to decide whi< K is tl-e createc. 





^^^^/■Cl^yz^y^ 



SEVENTEENTH FRES/DEIVT. 



33 









NDREW JOHNSON, seven- 
teenth President of the United 
States. The early life of 
Andrew Johnson contains but 
the record of poverty, destitu- 
tion and friendlessness. He 
was born December 29, 180S, 
in Raleigh, N. C. His parents, 
belonging to the class of the 
"poor whites " of the South, -were 
in such circumstances, that they 
could not conf:r ::.'er. the slight- 
est advantages of education upon 
their child. When Andrew was five 
years of age, his father accidentally 
lost his life while herorically endeavoring to save a 
friend from drowning, ^.'^niil ten years of age, Andrew 
was a ragged boy abouf ^he streets, supported by the 
labor of his mother, who obtained her living with 
her own hands. 

He then, having never attended a school one day, 
and being unable either to read or write, was ap- 
prenticed to a tailor in his native town. A gentleman 
was in the habit of going to the tailor's shop occa: 'on- 
ally, and reading to the boys at work there. He often 
read from the speeches of distinguished British states- 
men. Andrew, who was endowed with a mind of more 
than ordinary native ability, became much interested 
in these speeches ; his ambition was roused, and he 
was inspired with a strong desire to learn to read. 

He accordingly applied himself to the alphabet, and 
with the assistance of some of his fellow- workmen, 
iearned his letters. He then called upon the gentle- 
man to borrow the book of speeches. The owner. 



pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the book 
but assisted him in learning to combine the letters 
into words. Under such difficulties he pressed oi. 
ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve hours 
at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest 
and recreation to devote such time as he could to 
reading. 

He went to Tennessee in 1826, and located at 
Greenville, where he married a young lady who pos 
sessed some education. Under her instructions he 
learned to write and cipher. He became prominent 
in the village debating society, and a favorite with 
the students of Greenville College. In 1828, he or- 
ganized a working man's party, which elected him 
aldemian, and in 1830 elected him mayor, which 
position he held three years. 

He now began to take a lively interest in political 
affairs ; identifying himself with the working-classes, 
to which he belonged. In 1835, he was elected a 
member of the House of Representatives of Tennes- 
see. He was then just twenty-seven years of age. 
He became a very active member of the legislature 
gave his adhesion to the Democratic party, and in 
1840 "stumped the State," advocating Martin Tan 
Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thos^ 
of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired much 
readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased 
his reputation. 

In 1841, he was elected Stale Senator; in 1843, he 
was elected a member of Congress, and by successive 
elections, held that important post for ten years. In 
1853, he was elected Governor of Tennessee, and 
was re-elected in 1855. In all these resi)onsible posi- 
tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abi'. 



84 



ANDREW JOHNSON. 



ity, and proved himself the warm friend of the work- 
ing classes. In 1857, Mr. Johnson was elected 
United States Senator. 

Years before, in 1S45, he had warmly advocated 
the annexation of Texas, stating however, as .his 
reason, that he thought this annexation would prob- 
ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable 
sons of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom, 
and become merged in a population congenial to 
themselves." In 1850, he also supported the com- 
promise measures, the two essential features of which 
were, that the white people of the Territories should 
be permitted to decide for themselves whether they 
would enslave the colored people or not, and that 
the *'ree States of the North should return to the 
Souih persons who attempted to escape from slavery. 

Mr. Johnson was neverashamedof his lowly origin: 
on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that 
he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir," 
said he on the floor of the Senate, " I do not forget 
that I am a mechanic ; neither do I forget that Adam 
was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Sav- 
ior was the son of a carpenter." 

In the Charleston- Baltimore convention of iSuj, ae 
{(vas the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the 
T'residency. In 186 1, when the purpose of the South- 
ern Democracy became apparent, he took a decided 
stand in favor of the Union, and held that " slavery 
must be held subordinate to the Union at whatever 
cost." He returned to Tennessee, and repeatedly 
imperiled his own life to protect the Unionists of 
Tennesee. Tennessee having seceded from the 
Union, President Lincoln, on March 4th, 1862, ap- 
pointed him Military Governor of the State, and he 
established the most stringent military rule. His 
numerous proclamations attracted wide attention. In 

1864, he was elected Vice-President of the United 
States, and upon the death of Mr. Lincoln, April 15, 

1865, became President. In a speech two days later 
he said, " The American people must be taught, if 
they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and 
must be r;uriished; that the Government will not 
always beat with its enemies ; that it is strong not 
only to protect, but to punish. * * The people 
must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of 
crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole 
administration, the history of which is so well known, 
was in utter icwonsistency with, and the most violent 



opposition to. the principles laid down in that speech. 

In his loose policy of reconstruction and general 
amnesty, he was opposed by Congress; and he char- 
acterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly 
defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In 
the beginning of 1868, on account of "high crimes 
and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the 
removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Ten- 
ure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were pre- 
ferred against him, and the trial began March 23. 

It was very tedious, continuing for nearly three 
months. A test article of the impeachment was at 
length submitted to the court for its action. It was 
certain that as the court voted upon that article so 
would it vote upon all. Thirty-four voices pronounced 
the President guilty. As a two-thirds vote was neces- 
sary to his condemnation, he was pronounced ac- 
quitted, notwithstanding the great majority against 
him. The change of one vote from the not guilty 
side would have sustained the impeachment. 

The President, for the remainder of his term, was 
but little regarded. He continued, though impotently, 
his conflict with Congress. His own party did not 
think it expedient to renominate him for the Presi- 
dency. The Nation rallied, with enthusiasm unpar- 
alleled since the days of Washington, around the name 
of Gen. Grant. Andrew Johnson was forgotten. 
The bullet of the assassin introduced him to the 
President's chair. Notwithstanding this, never was 
there presented to a man a better opportunity to im- 
mortalize his name, and to win the gratitude of a 
nation. He failed utterly. He retired to his home 
in Greenville, Tenn., taking no very active part in 
politics until 1875. On Jan. 26, after an exciting 
struggle, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ten- 
nessee, United States Senator in the forty-fourth Con- 
gress, and took his seat in that body, at the special 
session convened by President Grant, on the 5th of 
March. On the 27th of July, 1875, the ex-President 
made a visit to his daughter's home, near Carter 
Station, Tenn. When he started on his journey, he was 
apparently in his usual vigorous health, but on reach- 
ing the residence of his child the following day, was 
stricken with paralysis, rendering him unconscious. 
He rallied occasirnally, but finally passed away at 
2 A. M., July 31, aged sixty-seven years. His fun- 
eral was attended at Geenville, on the 3d of August, 
with every demonstration of respect. 



ETGHTEEN'TH PRESIDENT. 








-c--:_ 




^'j LYSSES S. GRANT, the i 
i^ eighteenth President of the j 
' ■■ I'nited States, was bom on | 
V :he 29th of April, 1822, of 
s Christian parents, in a humble ' 
home, at Point Pleasant, on the 
banks of the Ohio. Shortly after 
his father moved to George- 
town, Brown Co., O. In this re- 
mote frontier hamlet, Ulysses 
received a common-school edu- 
cation. At the age of seven- 
teen, in the year 1S39, he entered 
the Militar)' Academy at West 
I Point. Here he was regarded as a 
solid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of 
sturdy, honest character. He took respectable rank 
as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about the 
middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of in- 
fantr\- to one of the distant mihtar)- posts in the Mis- 
souri Territory. Two years he past in these drear)' 
solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating 
Indians. 

The war with Mexico came. Lieut. Grant was 
sent with his regiment to Corpus Christi. His first 
battle was at Palo Alto. There was no chance here 
for the exhibition of either skill or heroism, nor at 
Resaca de la Palma, his second battle. At the battle 
of Monterey, his third engagement, it is said that 
he performed a signal ser^nce of daring and skillful 
horsemanship. His brigade had exhausted its am- 
munirion. A messenger must be sent for more, along 
a route exposed to the bullets of the foe. Lieut. 
Grant, adopring an expedient learned of the Indians, 
grasped the mane of his horse, and hanging upon one 
side of the anir»al, ran the gauntlet in entire safety-. 



From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry, 
to aid Gen. Scott, at the siege of Vera Cruz. In 
preparation for the march to the city of Mexico, he 
was appointed quartermaster of his regiment. At the 
battle of Molino del Rey, he was promoted to a 
first lieutenancy, and was brevetted captain at Cha- 
pultepec. 

At the close of the Mexican War, Capt. Grant re- 
turned with his regiment to New York, and was again 
sent to one of the militarj" posts on the frontier. The 
discover)" of gold in California causing an immense 
tide of emigrarion to flow to the Pacific shores, CapL 
Grant was sent with a battalion to Fort Dallas, in 
Oregon, for the protection of the interests of the im- 
migrants. Life was wearisome in those wilds. Capt. 
Grant resigned his commission and returned to the 
States ; and having married, entered upon the cultiva- 
tion of a small farm near St. Louis, Mo. He had but 
little skill as a farmer. Finding his toil not re- 
munerative, he turned to mercantile life, entering into 
the leather business, with a younger brother, at Ga- 
lena, 111. This was in the year i860. As the tidings 
of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears 
of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said, — 
" Uncle Sam has educated me for the array : though 
I have served him through one war, I do not feel that 
I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge 
my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my «word 
and see Uncle Sam through this war too." 

He went into the streets, raised a company of vol- 
unteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield, 
the capital of the State, where their services were 
offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by 
the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt. 
Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the 
volunteer organization that was being formed in the 
State in behalf of the Government, On the i?'^'> of 



'ULYSSES S. GRANT. 



June, t86i, Capt. Grant received a commission as 
Colonel of the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Vol- 
unteers. His merits as a West Point graduate, who 
had served for 15 years in the regular army, were such 
that he was soon promoted to the rank of Brigadier- 
General and was placed in command at Cairo. The 
rebels raised their banner at Paducah, near the mouth 
of the Tennessee River. Scarcely had its folds ap- 
peared in the breeze ere Gen. Grant was there. The 
rebels fled. Their banner fell, and the star and 
stripes were unfurled in its stead. 

He entered the service with great determination 
and immediately began active duty. This was the be- 
ginning, and until the surrender of Lee at Richmond 
he was ever pushing the enemy with great vigor and 
effectiveness. At Belmont, a few days later, he sur- 
prised and routed the rebels, then at Fort Henrj- 
won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight 
at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the 
victory, and the brave leader of the boys in blue was 
immediately made a M.^jor-General, and the military 
district of Tennessee was assigned to him. 

Like all great captains, Gen. Grant knew well how 
to secure the results of victory. He immediately 
pushed on to the enemies' lines. Then came the 
terrible battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, and the 
siege of Vicksburg, where Gen. Pemberton made an 
unconditional surrender of the city with over thirty 
thousand men and one-hundred and seventy-two can- 
non. The fall of Vicksburg was by far the most 
severe blow which the rebels had thus far encountered, 
and opened up the Mississippi from Cairo to the Gulf. 

Gen. Grant was next ordered to co-operate with 
Gen. Banks in a movement upon Texas, and pro- 
ceeded to New Orleans, where he was thrown from 
his horse, and received severe injuries, from which he 
was laid up for months. He then rushed to the aid 
of Gens. Rosecrans and Thomas at Chattanooga, and 
by a wonderful series of strategic and technical meas- 
ures put the Union Army in fighting condition. Then 
followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lo&kout 
Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels 
were routed with great loss. This won for him un- 
bounded praise in the North. On the 4th of Febru- 
ary, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenant- 
general, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant. 
He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials 
and enter upon \hf duties of his new office 



Gen. Grant decided as soon as he took charge of 
ihe army to concentrate the widely-dispersed National 
troops for an attack upon Richmond, the nominal 
capital of the Rebellion, and endeavor there to de- 
stroy the rebel armies which would be promptly as- 
sembled from all quarters for its defence. The whole 
continent seemed to tremble under the tramp of these 
majestic armies, rushing to the decisive battle field. 
Steamers were crowded with troops. Railway trains 
were burdened with closely packed thousands. His 
plans were comprehensive and involved a series of 
campaigns, which were executed with remarkable en- 
ergy and ability, and were consummated at the sur- 
render of Lee, April 9, 1865. 

The war was ended. The Union was saved. The 
almost unanimous voice of the Nation declared Gen. 
Grant to be the most prominent instrument in its sal- 
vation. The eminent services he had thus rendered 
the country brought him conspicuously forward as the 
Republican candidate for the Presidential chair. 

At the Republican Convention held at Chicago. 
May 21, 1 868, he was unanimously nominated for the 
Presidency, and at the autumn election received a 
majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294 
electoral votes. 

The National Convention of the Republican party 
which met at Philadelphia on the 5th of June, 1872, 
placed Gen. Grant in nomination for a second term 
by a unanimous vote. The selection was emphati- 
cally indorsed by the people five months later, 292 
electoral votes being cast for him. 

Soon after the close of his second term. Gen. Grant 
started upon his famous trip around the world. He 
visited almost every country of the civilized world, 
and was everywhere received with such ovations 
and demonstrations of respect and honor, private 
as well as public and official, as were never before 
bestowed upon any citizen of the United States. 

He was the most prominent candidate before the 
Republican National Convention in 1880 for a re- 
nomination for President. He went to New York and 
embarked in the brokerage business under the firm 
nameof Grant & Ward. The latter proved a villain, 
wrecked Grant's fortune, and for larceny was sent to 
the penitentiary. The General was attacked with 
cancer in the throat, but suffered in his stoic-like 
manner, never complaining. He was re-instated as 
General of the Army and retired by Congress. The 
cancer soon finished its deadly work, and July 23, 
1885, the nation went in mourning over the death oi 
the illustrious General. 




■ - -e. o A 



i&/£/^ 



yr 



NJI^EtEENTH PRESIDENT. 



91 









UTHERFORD B. HAYES, 
the nineteenth President of 
the United States, was born in 
Delaware, O., Oct. 4, 1822, al- 
most three months after the 
death of his father, Rutherford 
Hayes. His ancestry on both 
the paternal and maternal sides, 
was of the most honorable char- 
acter. It can be traced, it is said, 
as far back as 1280, when Hayes and 
Rutherford were two Scottish chief- 
tains, fighting side by side with 
fBaliol, William Wallace and Robert 
Bruce. Both families belonged to the 
nobility, owned extensive estates, 
' and had a large following. Misfor- 
tiine cvtrtaking the family, George Hayes left Scot- 
land in 16S0, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son 
George was born in Windsor, and remained there 
during his Hie. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, mar- 
ried Sarah Lee, and lived from the time of his mar- 
riage until his death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel, 
son of Daniel, was born in t724, and was a manufac- 
turer of scythes at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes, 
son of Ezekiel aiid grandfather of President Hayes, was 
bom in New Haven, in August, 1756. He was a farmer, 
blacksmith and tavern-keei>er. He emigrated to 
Vermont at an uiiknown date, settling in Brattleboro, 
where he established a hotel. Here his son Ruth- 
erford Hayes the father of President Hayes, was 



born. He was married, in September, r8r3, to Sophia 
Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt., whose ancestors emi- 
grated thither from Connecticut, they having been 
among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich. 
Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to 
1635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders 
of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers 
in the Revolutionary War. 

The father of President Hayes was an industrious, 
frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me- 
chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stock- 
ing, or do almost anything else that he choose to 
undertake. He was a member of the Church, active 
in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and con- 
ducted his business on Christian principles. After 
the close of the war of i8t2, for reasons inexplicable 
to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio. 

The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day. 
when there were no canals, steamers, nor railways, 
was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was 
first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter 
mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived 
in 1817. He died July 22, 1822, a victim of malarial 
fever, less than three months before the birth of the 
son, of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore be- 
reavement, found the support she so much needed in 
her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the 
household from the day of its departure from Ver- 
mont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted 
some time before as an act of charity. 

Mrs. Hayes at this period was very weak, and the 



93 



RUTHERFORD B. HAYES. 



subject of this sketch was so feeble at birth that he 
was not expected to live beyond a month or two at 
iHOSt. As the months went by he grew weaker and 
weaker, so that the neighbors were in the habit of in- 
quiring from time to time '• if Mrs. Hayes' baby died 
last night." On one occasion a neighbor, who was on 
familiar terms with the family, after alluding to the 
lioy's big head, and the mother's assiduous care of 
nim, said in a bantering way, " That's right ! Stick to 
liim. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't 
wonder if he would really come to something yet." 

" You need not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes. "You 
ivait and see. You can't tell but I shall make him 
President of the United States yet." The boy lived, 
in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy 
death; and when, in 1825, his older brother was 
drowned, he became, if possible, still dearer to his 
mother. 

The boy was seven years old before he w^nt to 
school. His education, however, was not neglected. 
He probably learned as much from his mother and 
sister as he would have done at school. His sports 
were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being 
his sister and her associates. These circumstances 
tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of dispo- 
sition, and that delicate consideration for the feelings 
of others, which are marked traits of his character. 
His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest 
.in his education ; and as the boy's health had im~ 
'proved, and he was making good progress in his 
'studies, he proposed to send him to college. His pre- 
paration commenced with a tutor at home; bit he 
was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the 
Wesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He en- 
tered Kenyon College in 1838, at the age of sixteen, 
and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842. 
Immediately after his graduation he began the 
study of law in the office of Thomas Sparrow, Esq., 
in Columbus. Finding his opportunities for study in 
Columbus somewhat limited, he determined to enter 
the Law School at Cambridge, Mass., where he re- 
mained two years. 

In 1845, after graduatmg at the Law School, he was 
admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly 
afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law 
with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he re- 
mained three years, acquiring but a limited practice, 
and apparently unambitious of distinction in his pro- 
Cession. 

\n 1849 he moved to Cincinnati, where his ambi- 
tion found a new stimulus. For several years, how- 
ever, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at 
this period, had a powerful influence upon his subse- 
quent 'ife. One of these was his marrage with Miss 
Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of 
Chilicothe; the othei was his introduction to the Cin- 
cinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its 
members such men as '"hief Justice Salmon P. Chase, 



Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many 
others hardly less distinguished in after life. The 
marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as 
everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our 
Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced 
and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did 
more than she to reflect honor upon American woman 
hood. The Literary Cluu brought Mr. Hayes into 
constant association with young men of high char- 
acter and noble aims, and lured him to display the 
qualities so long hidden by his bashfulncBS and 
modesty. 

In 1856 he was nominated to the office of Judge o^' 
the Court of Common Pleas ; but he declined to ar.. 
cept the nomination. Two years later, the office d 
city solicitor becoming vacant, the City Council 
elected him for the unexpired term. 

In 1 86 1, when the Rebellion broke out, he was at 
tlie zenith of his professional lif.. His rank at the 
bar was among the the first. But the news of the 
attack on Fort Sumpter found him eager to take 'in 
arms for the defense of his coimtr)-. 

His military record was bright and illustrious. In 
October, 1861, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and 
in August, 1862, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio 
regiment, but he refused to leave his old comrades 
and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he 
was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the battle 
of South Mountain he received a wound, and while 
faint and bleeding displayed courage and fortitude 
that won admiration from all. 

Col. Hayes was detached from his regiment, after 
his recovery, to act as Brigadier-General, and placed 
in command of the celebrated Kanawha division, 
and for gallant and meritorious services in the battles 
of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was 
promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted 
Major-General, "for gallant and distinguished fervices 
during the campaigns of 1864, in West Virginia." In 
the course of his arduous services, four horses were 
shot from under him, and he was wounded four times 
In 1864, Gen. Hayes was elected to Congress, from 
the Second Ohio District, which had long been Dem- 
ocratic. He was not present during the campaign, 
and after his election was importuned to resign his 
commission in the army ; but he finally declared, " I 
shall never come to Washington until I can come by 
the way of Richmond." He was re-elected in 1866. 

Ir. 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor of Ohio, 
over Hon. .\llen G. Thunnan, a populai Democrat. 
In 1869 was re-eiected over George H. Pendleton. 
He was elected Governor for the third term in 1875. 
In 1876 he was the standard beater of the Repub- 
lican Party in the Presidential contest, and after a 
hard long contest was chosen President,, and was in 
augurated Monday, March 5, 1875. He served his 
full term, not, however, with satisfaction to his party, 
but his administration was an average or\° 





^, t^O^/h^^^<^i 



TiVENTIETH rRESinENT. 



9S 




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iJAMES A„ (iAKFIELD. ,^ 



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AMES A. GARFIELD, twen- 
tieth President of the United 
States, was born Nov. 19, 
I S3 1, in the woods of Orange, 
Cuyahoga Co., O His par- 
/ "*' ents were Abram and EHza 
', ( Ballou) Garfield, both of New 
r.ngland ancestry and from fami- 
lies well known in the early his- 
>>, tory of that section of our coun- 
try, but had moved to the Western 
Reserve, in Ohio, early in its settle- 

fment. 
The house in which James A. was 
born was not unlike the houses of 
f poor Ohio farmers of that day. It 
.<iE about 20x30 feet, built of logs, with the spaces be- 
.^/2en the logs filled with clay. His father was a 
.jard working farmer, and he soon had his fields 
jleared, an orchard planted, and a log barn built. 
The household comprised the father and mother and 
■heir four children — Mehetabcl, Thomas, Mary and 
"ames. In May, 1823, the father, from a cold con- 
.racted in helping to put out a forest fire, died. At 
this time James was about eighteen months old, and 
Thomas about ten years old. No one, perhaps, can 
fell how much James was indebted to his biother's 
toil and self sacrifice during the twenty years suc- 
ceeding his father's death, but undoubtedly very 
much. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sis- 
vers live in Solon, O., near their birthplace. 

The early educational advantages young Garfield 
enjoyed were very limited, yet he made the most of 
them. He labored at farm work for others, did car- 
penter work, chopped wood, or did anything that 
would bring in a few dollars to aid his widowed 
mother in he' struggles to keep the little family to- 



gether. Nor was Gen. Garfield ever ashamed of his 
origin, and he never forgot the friends of his strug- 
gling childhood, youth and manhood, neither did they 
ever forget him. When in the highest seats of honor. 
the humblest fiiend of his boyhood was as kindly 
greeted as ever. The poorest laborer was sure of the 
sympathy of one who had known all the bitterness 
of want and the sweetness of bread earned by the 
sweat of the brow. He was ever the simple, plain, 
modest gentleman. 

The highest ambition of young Garfield until hi 
was about sixteen years old was to be a captain of 
a vessel on Lake Erie. He was anxious to go aboard 
a vessel, which his mother strongly opposed. She 
finally consented to his going to Cleveland, with the 
understanding, however, that he should try to obtair 
some other kind of employment. He walked all the 
way to Cleveland. This was his first visit to the city 
Afier making many applications for work, and trying 
to get aboard a lake vessel, and not meeting with 
success, he engaged as a driver for his cousin, Amos 
Letcher, on the Ohio & Pennsylvania Canal. He re- 
mained at this work but a short time when he wen'; 
home, and attended the seminar;' at Chester for 
about three years, when he entered Hiram and the 
Eclectic Institute, teaching a few terms of school in 
the meantime, and doing other work. This school 
was started by the Disciples of Christ in 1850, of 
which church he was then a member. He became 
janitor and bell-ringer in order to help pay his way 
He then became both teacher and pupil. He soon 
" exhausted Hiram " and needed more ; hence, in the 
fall of 18^4, he entered Williams College, from which 
he graduated in 1856, taking one of the highest h*,- 
ors of his class. He afterwards returned to Hiram 
College as its President. As above stated, he early 
united with the Christian or Diciples Church at 
Hiram, and was ever after a devoted, zealous mem- 
ber, often preaching in its pulpit and places where 
he happened to be. Dr. Noah Porter, President of 
Yale College, says of him in reference to his religion; 



90 



JAMES A. GARFIELD. 



" President Garfield was more than a man of 
strong moral and religious convictions. His whole 
history, from boyhood to the last, shows that duty to 
man and to God, and devotion to Christ and life and 
faith and spiritual commission were controlling springs 
of his being, and to a more than usual degree. In 
my judgment there is no more interesting feature of 
his character than his loyal allegiance to the body of 
Christians in which he was trained, and the fervent 
sympathy which he ever showed in their Christian 
communion. Not many of the few 'wise and mighty 
and noble who are called' show a similar loyalty to 
the less stately and cultured Christian communions 
in which they have been reared. Too often it is true 
that as they step upward in social and political sig- 
nificance they step upward from one degree to 
another in some of the many types of fashionable 
Christianity. President Garfield adhered to the 
church of his mother, the church in which he was 
trained, and in which he served as a pillar and an 
evangelist, and yet with the largest and most unsec- 
tarian charity for all 'who loveour Lord in sincerity.'" 

Mr. Garfield was united in marriage with Miss 
Lucretia Rudolph, Nov. ii, 1858, who proved herself 
worthy as the wife of one whom all the world loved and 
mourned. To them were born seven children, five of 
whom are still living, four boys and one girl. 

Mr. Garfield made his first political speeches in 1856, ^ 
in Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three 
years later he began to speak at county mass-meet- 
ings, and became the favorite speaker wherever he 
was. During this year he was elected to the Ohio 
Senate. He also began to study law at Cleveland, 
and in r86i was admitted to the bar. The great 
Rebellion broke out in the early part of this year, 
and Mr. Garfield at once resolved to fight as he had 
talked, and enlisted to defend the old flag. He re- 
ceived his commission as Lieut.-Colonel of the Forty- 
second Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Aug. 
14, 1861. He was immediately put into active ser- 
vice, and before he had ever seen a gun fired in action, 
was placed in command of four regiments of infantry 
and eight companies of cavalry, charged with the 
work of driving out of his native State the officer 
(Humphrey Marshall) reputed to be the ablest of 
those, not educated to war whom Kentucky had given 
to the Rebellion. This work was bravely and speed- 
ily accomplished, although against great odds. Pres- 
ident Lincoln, on his success commissioned him 
Brigadier-General, Jan. 10, 1862; and as "he had 
been the youngest man in the Ohio Senate two years 
before, so now he was the youngest General in the 
army." He was with Gen. Buell's army at Shiloh, 
in its operations around Corinth and its march through 
Alabama. He was then detailed as a member of the 
General Couit-Martial for the trial of Gen. Fitz-John 
Porter. He was then ordered to report to Gen. Rose- 
crans, and was assigned to the "Chief of Staff." 

The military tJstory of Gen. Garfield closed with 



his brilliant services at Chickamauga, where he won 
the stars of the Major-General. 

Without an effort on his part Geij Garfield wa» 
elected to Congress in the fall of 1862 from the 
Nineteenth District of Ohio. This section of Ohio 
had been represented in Congress for si.xty yean 
mainly by two men — Elisha Whittlesey and Joshut. 
R. Giddings. It was not without a struggle that he 
resigned his place in the army. At the time he en- 
tered Congress he was the youngest member in thai 
body. There he remained by successive re- 
elections until he was elected President in 1880. 
Of his labors in Congress Senator Hoar says : " Sinct 
the year 1864 you cannot think of a question which 
has been debated in Congress, or discussed before & 
tribunel of the American people, in regard to whict 
you will not find, if you wish mstruction, the argu. 
ment on one side stated, in almost every instance 
belter than by anybody else, in some speech made in 
the House of Representatives or on the hustings by 
Mr. Garfield." 

Upon Jan. 14, 1880, Gen. Garfield was elected to 
the U. S. Senate, and on the eighth of June, of the 
same year, was nominated as the candidate of his 
party for President at the great Chicago Convention. 
He was elected in the following November, and on 
March 4, i88r, was inaugurated. Probably no ad- 
ministration ever opened its existence under brighter 
auspices than that of President Garfield, and every 
day it grew in favor with the people, and by the first 
of July he had completed all the initiatory and pre- 
liminary work of his administration and was prepar- 
ing to leave tlie city to meet his friends at Williams 
College, While on his way and at the depot, in com- 
pany with Secretary Blaine, a man stepped behind 
him, drew a revolvei, and fired directly at his back. 
The President tottered and fell, and as he did so the 
assassin fired a second shot, the bullet cutting the 
left coat sleeve of his victim, but inflicting no further 
injury. It has been very truthfully said that this was 
" the shot that was heard round the world " Never 
before in the history of the Nation had anything oc- 
curred which so nearly froze the blood of the peop!° 
for tlie moment, as this awful deed. He was smit- 
ten on the brightest, gladdest day of all his life, and 
was at the summit of his power and hope. For eighty 
days, all during the hot months of July and August, 
he lingered and suffered. He, however, remained 
master of himself till the last, and by his magnificent 
bearing was teaching the country and the world the 
noblest of human lessons — how to live grandly in the 
very clutch of death. Great in life, he was surpass- 
ingly great in death. He passed serenely away Sept. 
19, x88t, at Elheron, N. J, on the very bank of the 
ocean, \vhere he had been taken shortly previous. The 
world wept at his death, as it never had done on the 
death of any other man who had ever lived upon it. 
The murderer was duly tried, found guilty and exe- 
cuted, in one year after he committ»d the foul deed. 



XJ*^-^^ 




TWEJVTY-FIUST PRESIUENT. 



99 





HESTER A. ARTHUR, 

twenty-first Presid^iu of the 
United States, was born in 
Franklin Cour ty, Vermont, on 
thefifthofOc'ober, 1830, and is 
the oldest of a family of two 
sons and five daughters. His 
father was the Rev. Dr. William 
Arthur, a Baptist d'.rgyman, who 
emigrated to tb'.s countr)' from 
the county Antrim, Ireland, in 
his 1 8th year, and died in 1875, in 
Newtonville, neai Albany, after a 
long and successful ministry- 
Young Arthur was educated at 
Union College, S( henectady, where 
he excelled in all his studies. Af- 
ter his graduation he taught school 
in Vermont for two years, and at 
the expiration of that time came to 
New York, with $500 in his ix)cket, 
and entered the office of ex-Judge 
E. D. Culver as student. After 
being admitted to the bar he formed 
a partnership with his intimate friend and room-mate, 
Henry D. Gardiner, with the intention of practicing 
in the West, and for three months they roamed about 
in the Western States in search of an eligible site, 
but in the end returned to New York, where they 
hung out their shingle, and entered upon a success^ 
ful career almost from the start. General Arthur, 
soon afterward rtwajrr''d the daughter of Lieutenant 



Hemdon, of the United States Navy, who was lost at 
sea. Congress voted a gold medal to his widow in 
recognition of the bravery he displayed on that occa- 
sion. Mrs. Arthur died shortly before Mr. Arthur's 
nomination to the Vice Presidency, leaving two 
children. 

Gen. Arthur obtained considerable legal celebrity 
in his first great case, the famous Lemmon suit, 
brought to recover possession of eight slaves who had 
been declared free by Judge Paine, of the Superior 
Court of New York City. It was in 1852 that Jon., 
athan Lemmon, of Virginia, went to New York with 
his slaves, intending to ship them to Texas, when 
they were discovered and freed. The Judge decided 
that they could not be held by the owner under the 
Fugitive Slave Law. A howl of rage went up from 
the South, and the Virginia Legislature authorized the 
Attorney General of that State to assist in an appeal. 
Wm. M. Evarts and Chester A. Arthur were employed 
to represent the People, and they won their case, 
which then went to the Supreme Court of the United 
States. Charles O'Conor here espoused the cause 
of the slave-holders, but he too was beaten by Messrs 
Evarts and Arthur, and a long step was taken toward 
the emancipation of the black race. 

Another great service was rendered by General 
Arthur in the same cause in 1856. Lizzie Jennings, 
a respectable colored woman, was put off a Fourth 
Avenue car with violence after she had paid her fare. 
General Arthur sued on her behalf, and secured a 
verdict of $500 damages. The next day the compa- 
ny issued an order to admit colored persons to ride 
on their cars, and the other car companies quickly 



CHESTER A. ARTHUR. 



followed their example. Before that the Sixth Ave- 
nue Company ran a few special cars for colored per- 
sons and the other lines refused to let them ride at all. 

General Arthur was a delegate to the Convention 
at Saratoga that founded the Republican party. 
Previous to the war he was Judge-Advocate of the 
Second Brigade of the State of New York, and Gov- 
ernor Morgan, of that State, appointed hnn Engineer- 
in-Chief of his staff. In 1861, he was made Inspec- 
tor General, and soon afterward became Quartermas- 
ter-General. In each of these offices he rendered 
great service to the Government during the war. At 
the end of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the 
practice of the law, forming a partnership with Mr. 
Ransom, and then Mr. Phelps, the District Attorney 
of New York, was added to the firm. The legal prac- 
tice of this well-known firm was very large and lucra- 
tive, each of the gentlemen composing it were able 
lawyers, and possessed a splendid local reputation, if 
not indeed one of national extent. 

He always took a leading part in State and city 
politics. He was appointed Collector of the Port of 
New York by President Grant, Nov. 21 1872, to suc- 
ceed Thomas Murphy, and held the office until July, 
20, 1878, when he was succeeded by Collector Merritt. 

Mr. Arthur was nominated on the Presidential 
ticket, with Gen. James A. Garfield, at the famous 
National Republican Convention held at Chicago in 
June, 1880. This was perhaps the greatest political 
convention that ever assembled on the continent. It 
was composed of the )2ading politicians of the Re- 
publican party, all able men, and each stood firm and 
fought vigorously and with signal tenacity for their 
respective candidates that were before the conven- 
tion for the nomination. Finally Gen. Garfield re- 
ceived the nomination for President and Gen. Arthur 
for Vice-President. The campaign which followed 
was one of the most animated known in the history of 
our country. Gen. Hancock, the standard-bearer of 
the DemocraUc party, was a popular man, and his 
party made a valiant fight for his election. 

Finally the election came and the country's choice 
was Garfield and Arthur. They were inaugurated 
March 4, 1881, as President and Vice-President. 
A. few months only had passed ere the newly chosen 
President was the victim of the assassin's bullet. Then 
came terrible weeks of suffering, — those moment* of 
anxious suspense, when the hearts of all civilized na- 



tions were throbbing in unison, longing for the re- 
covery of the noble, the good President. The remark- 
able patience that he manifested during those hours 
and weeks, and even months, of the most terrible suf- 
fering man has often been called upon to endure, was 
seemingly more than human. It was certainly God- 
like. During all this period of deepest anxiety Mr, 
Arthur's every move was watched, and be it said to hi? 
credit that his every action displayed only an earnest 
desire that the suffering Garfield might recover, to 
serve the remainder of the term he had so auspi- 
ciously begun. Not a selfish feeling was manifested 
in deed or look of this man, even though the most 
honored position in the world was at any moment 
likely to fall to him. 

At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar- 
field from further suffering, and the world, as nevei 
before in its history over the death of any othei 
man, wept at his bier. Then it became the duty 0/ 
the Vice President to assume the responsibilities ol 
the high office, and he took the oath in New York, 
Sept. 20, 1881. The position was an embarrassing 
one to him, made doubly so from the facts that all 
eyes were on him, anxious to know what he would do, 
what policy he would pursue, and who he would se- 
lect as advisers. The duties of the office had been 
greatly neglected during the President's long illness,' 
and many im[X)rtant measures were to be immediately 
decided by him ; and still farther to embarrass him he 
did not fail to realize under what circumstances he 
became President, and knew the feelings of many on 
this point. Under these trying circumstances President 
Arthur took the reins of the Government in his owi. 
hands ; and, as embarrassing as were the condition of 
affairs, he happily surprised the nation, acting so 
wisely Jhat but few criticisea Viis administration. 
He served the nation well and faithfully, until tlie 
close of his administration, March 4, 1885, and was 
a popular candidate before his party for a second 
term. His name was ably presented before the con- 
vention at Chicago, and was received with great 
favor, and doubtless but for the personal popularity 
of one of the opposing candidates, he would have 
been selected as the standard-bearer of his party 
for another campaign. He retired to private life car- 
rying with him the best wishes of the American peo- 
ple, whom he had served in a manner satisfactory 
to them and with credit to himself. : 




C ''7--(^rt^;^ CZ-C^^^^CC 



Ccyiy^A 



TWENTY-SECOND PRESIDENT. 



103 




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TEPHEN GROVER CLEVE- 
LAND, the twenty- second Pres- 
ident of the United States, was 
born in 1837, in the obscure 
town of Caldwell, Essex Co., 
N. J., and in a little two-and-a- 
h.ilf-story white house which is still 
St mding, characteristically to mark 
the humble birth-place of one of 
America's great men in striking con- 
trast with the Old World, where all 
men high in office must be high in 
origin and born in the cradle of 
wealth. When the subject of this 
sketch was three years of age, his 
father, who was a Presbyterian min- 
ister, with a large family and a small salary, moved, 
by way of the Hudson River and Erie Canal, to 
Fayetteville, in search of an increased income and a 
larger field of work. Fayetteville was then the most 
straggling of country villages, about five miles from 
Pompey Hill, where Governor Seymour was born. 

At the last mentioned place young Grover com- 
menced going to school in the "good, old-fashioned 
way," and presumably distinguished himself after the 
manner of all village boys, in doing the things he 
ought not to do. Such is the distinguishing trait of 
all geniuses and independent thinkers. When he 
arrived at the age of 14 years, he had outgrown the 
.capacity of the village school and expressed a most 



emphatic desire to be sent to an academy. To this 
his father decidedly objected. Academies in those 
days cost money; besides, his father wanted him to 
become self-supiwrting by the quickest possible 
means, and this at that time in Fayetteville seemed 
to be a position in a country store, where his father 
and the large family on his hands had considerable 
influernce. Grover was to be paid $50 for his services 
the first year, and if he proved trustworthy he was to 
receive $100 the second year. Here the lad com- 
menced his career as salesman, and in two years he 
had earned so good a reputation for trustworthiness 
that his employers desired to retain him for an in- 
definite length of time. Otherwise he did not ex- 
hibit as yet any particular " flashes of genius " or 
eccentricities of talent. He was simply a good boy. 
But instead of remaining with this firm in Fayette- 
ville, he went with the family in their removal to 
Clinto;i, where he had an opportunity of attending a 
high school. Here he industriously pursued his 
studies until the family removed with him to a point 
on Black River known as the "Holland Patent," a 
village of 500 or 600 people, 15 miles north of Utica, 
N. Y. At this place his father died, after preaching 
but three Sundays. This event broke up the family, 
and Grover set out for New York City to accept, at a 
sm.ill salary, the position of " under-teacher " in an 
asylum for the blind. He taught faithfully for two 
years, and although he obtained a good reputation in 
this capacity, he concluded that teaching was not his 



S. GJiOVER CLEVELAND. 



calling for life, and, reversing the traditional order, 
he left the city tc seek his fortune, inst^^f' o*" ?oing 
to a city. He first inougnt ot Cleveland, Ohio, as 
there was some charm in that name for him; but 
before proceeding to that place he went to Buffalo to 
(isk the advice of his uncle, Lewis F. Allan, a noted 
stock- breeder of that place. The latter did not 
speak entliusiastically. " What is it you want to do, 
my boy?" he asked. "Well, sir, I want to study 
!a\''," was the reply. "Good gracious!" remarked 
,h« old gentleman ; " do you, indeed .'' What ever put 
that into your head? How much money have you 
got.'" ''Well, sir, to tell the truth, I haven't got 
an^." 

After a long consultation, his uncle offered him a 
place temporarily as assistant herd-keeper, at $50 a 
year, wiiile lie cuuld " look around." One day soon 
afterward he boldly walked into the office of Rogers, 
Bowen & Rogers, of Buffalo, and told ihem what he 
wanted. A number of young men were already en- 
gaged in the office, but Graver's persistency won, and 
ne was finally permitted to come as an office boy and 
nave the use of the law library, for the nominal sum 
of $3 or $4 a week. Out of this he had to pay for 
his board and washing. The walk to and from his 
uncle's was a long and rugged one; and, although 
the first winter was a memorably severe one, his 
shoes were out of repair and his overcoat — he had 
none — yet he was nevertheless prompt and regular. 
On the first day of his service here, his senior em- 
ployer threw down a copy of Blackstone before him 
with a bang that made the dust fly, saying "That's 
v.here they all begin." A titter ran around the little 
circle of cleiks and students, as they thought that 
was enough to scare young Grover out of his plans ; 
Dut in due time he mastered that cumbersome volume. 
Then, as ever afterward, however, Mr. Cleveland 
exhibited a talent for e.xecutiveness rather than for 
chasing principles through all their metaphysical 
possibilities. " Let us quit talking and go and do 
t," was practically hii motto.' 

The first public office to which Mr. Cleveland was 
elected was tliat of Sheriff of Erie Co., N. Y., in 
which Buffalo is situated; and in such capacity it fell 
to his duty to inflict capital pi'-.Ishment upon two 
cjiminals. In 1881 he was elected Mayor of the 
City of Buffalo, on the Democratic ticket, v/i;h es- 
pecial referance to the bringing about certain reforms 



in the administration of the municipal affairs of that 
cit" In this office, a? well as that of Sheriff, his 
penormance of duty has generally been considered 
fair, with possibly a few exceptions which were fer- 
reted out and magnified during the last Presidential 
campaign. As a specimen of his plain language in 
a veto message, we quote fiom one vetoing an ini7ui 
tons street-cleaning contract: "This is a tiu)e fo\ 
plain speech, and my objection to your action shall 
be plainly staled. I regard it as tlie culmination of 
a mos bare-faced, impudent and shameless scheme 
to betray the interests of the people and to worsj 
than squander the people's money." The New York 
Sun afterward very highly commended Mr. Cleve- 
land's administration as Mayor of Buffalo, and there- 
upon recommended him for Governor of the Empire 
State. To the latter office he was elected in 1882, 
and his administration of the affairs of State was 
generally satisfactory. The mistakes he made, if 
any, were made very public throughout the nation 
after he was nominated for President of the United 
States. For this high office he was nominated July 
II, 1884, by the National Democratic Convention at 
Chicago, when other competitors were Thomas F. 
Bayard, Roswell P. Flower, Thomas A. Hendricks, 
Benjamin F. Butler, Allen G. Thurman, etc.; and he 
was elected by the people, by a majority of al>out a 
thousand, over the brilliant and long-tried Repub- 
lican statesman, James G. Blaine. President Cleve- 
land resigned his office as Governor of New York in 
January, 1885, in order to prepare for his duties as 
the Chief Executive of die United States, in which 
caijacity his term commenced at noon on the 4th ot 
March, 1885. For his Cabinet officers he selected 
the following gentlemen: For Secretary of State, 
Thomas F. Bayard, of Delaware ; Secretary of the 
Treasury, Daniel Manning, of New York; Secretary 
of War, William C. Endicott, of Massachusetts ; 
Secretary of the Navy, William C. Whitney, of New 
York ; Secretary of the Interior, L. Q. C Lamar, of 
Mississippi; Postmaster-General, William F. Vilas, 
of Wisconsin; Attorney-General, A. H. Garland, of 
Arka.isas. 

The silver question precipitated a controversy be- 
tweer those who were in favor of the continuance of 
silver coinage and those who were opposed, Mr. 
Cleveland answering for the latter, even before his 
'iiauiiuration. 



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TWENTY-THIRD PRESIDENT. 



]07 




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IeNJAMIN HARRISON, the 
twenty-third President, is 
the descendant of one of the 
historical families of this 
country. The head of the 
family was a Major General 
Harrison, one of Oliver 
Cromwell's trusted follow- 
ers and fighters. In the zenith of Crom- 
well's power it became the duty of this 
Harrison to participate in the trial of 
Charles I, and afterward tc sign the 
death warrant of the king. He subse- 
quently paid for this with his life, being 
hung Oct. 13, 1660. His descendants 
came to America, and the next of the 
family that appears in history is Benja- 
ruin Harrison, of Virginia, great-grand- 
father of the subject of this sketch, and 
after whom he was named. Benjamin Harrison 
was a member of the Continental Congress during 
the years 1774-5-6, and was one of the original 
signers of the Declaration of Independence. He 
wtLT three times elected Governor of Virginia, 
Gen William Henry Harrison, the son of the 



distinguished patriot of the Revolution, after a suo. 
cessful career as a soldier during the War of 1812, 
and with -a clean record as Governor of the North- 
western Territory, was elected President of the 
United States in 1840. His saraer was cut short 
by death within one month .'jfter liis inruguration. 
President Harrison wa': bcrn at Nor:'-. Bend, 
Hamilton Co., Ohio, Aug. "0, 1833 His life up to 
the time of his graduation by the Miami University, 
at Oxford, Ohio, was the uneventful one of a coun- 
try lad of a family of small means. His father was 
able to give him a good education, and nothmg 
more. He became engaged while at college to th3 
daughter of Dr. Scott, Principal of a female schoo 
at Oxford. After graduating he determined to en- 
ter upon the study of the law. He went tc Cin 
cinnati and then read law for two years. At tht 
expiration of that time young Harrison receivt-d tbi 
only inheritance of his life; his aunt dying left him 
a lot valued at 1800. He regarded this legacy as & 
fortune, and decided to get married at once, taks 
this money and go to some Eastern town an '. oe- 
gin the practice of law. He sold his lot, and with 
the money in his pocket, he started out wita his 
young wife to fight for a place in the world- Ke 



108 



BENJAMIN HARRISON, 



decided to go to Indianapolis, which was even at 
that time a town of promise. He met with slight 
encouragement at first, making scarcely anything 
the first year. He worl^ed diligently, applying him- 
self closely to his calling, built up an extensive 
practice and took a leading rank in the legal pro- 
fession. He is the father of two children. 

In 186C Mr. Harrison was nominated for the 
position of Supreme Court Reporter, and then be- 
gan his experience as a stump speakei He can- 
vassed the State thoroughly, and was elected by a 
handsome majority. In 1SG2 he raised the 17th 
Indiana Infantry, and was chosen its Colonel. His 
regiment was composed of *he rawest of material, 
out Col. Harrison employed all his time at first 
mastering military tactics and drilling his men, 
when he therefore came to move toward the East 
with Sherman his regiment was one of the best 
ilrilled and organized in the army. At Resaca he 
especially distinguished himself, and for his bravery 
at Peachtree Creek he was made a Brigadier Gen- 
eral, Gen. Hooker speaking of him in the most 
complimentary terms. 

During the absence of Gen. Harrison in the field 
he Supreme Court declared the office of the Su- 
preme Court Reporter vacant, and another person 
was elected to the position. From the time of leav- 
ii-g Indiana with his regiment until the f.all oi 1864 
he had taken no leave of absence, but having been 
nominated that year for the same office, he got a 
thirty-day leave of absence, and during that time 
made a brilliant canvass of the State, and was elected 
for another terra. He then started to rejoin Sher- 
man, but on the way was stricken down with scarlet 
'.ever, and after a most tr3'ing siege made his way 
to the front in time to participate in the closing 
incidents of the war. 

In 1868 Gen. Harrison declined re-election as 
;€porter, and resumed the practice of law. In 1876 
he was a candidate for Governor. Although de- 
sated, the brilliant campaign ho irade won iorhim 
a National reputation, and he was much sought, es- 
peciaLy in the East, to make speeches. In 1880, 
as usual, he took an active part in ine campaign, 
^-nd wu' elected to the Tnited States Senate. Here 
lie set-ved six years, and ras known as one Ci the 
ibiest men, best lawyer'^ »nd strongest debaters in 



that body. With the expiration of his Senatorial 
term he returned to the practice of his profession, 
becoming the head of one of the strongest firms in 
the State. 

The political campaign of 1888 was one of the 
most memorable in the history of our country. The 
convention which assembled in Chicago in June and 
named Mr. Harrison as the chief standard bearer 
of the Republican party, was great in ever^' partic- 
ular, and on this account, and the attitude it as- 
sumed upon the vital questions of the day, chief 
among which was the tariff, awoke a deep interest 
in the campaign throughout the Nation. Shortly 
after the nomination delegations began to visit Mr. 
Harrison at Indianapolis, his home. This move- 
ment became popular, and from all sections of the 
country societies, clubs and delegations journeyed 
thither to pay their respects to the distinguished 
statesman. The popularity of these was greatly 
increased on account of the remarkable speeches 
made by Jlr. Harrison. He spoke daily all through 
the summer and autumn to these visiting delega- 
tions, and so varied, masterly and eloquent were 
his speeches that they at once placed him in the 
foremost rank of American orators and statesmen. 

On account of his eloquence as a speaker and hi? 
power as a debater, he was called upon at an un- 
commonl}' early age to take part in the discussion 
of the great questions that then began to agitate 
the countiy. He was an uncompromising ant: 
slaveiy man, and wa.s matched against some of ILe 
most eminent Democratic speakers of his State 
No man who felt the touch of his blade ds -'red t. 
be pitted Avith him again. With all his e'oq''ence 
as an orator lie never spoke for oratorical etfect, 
but his words always went like bullets to the mark 
lie is purely American in his ideas and ic a spier 
did type of the American statesman. Gifted witL 
quick perception, a logical mind and a ready tongue, 
lie is one of the most distinguished impromptu 
speakers in the Nation. Many of tliese speeches 
sparkled with the rarest of eloquence and contained 
arguments of greatest weight. Many of his terse 
statements have already become aphorisms. Origi- 
nal in tliought precise la logic, terse in statement, 
3e': withal faultless in elociuence, he is recognized as 
the sound statesman and briJ Ian orator 



5 i-i^ri^ iirtw^Cxv-j 



and bri.' ^an orator c tu- aa v 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Ill 



ON. WILLIAM M< KINLEY, Jr. In every 
part of the Union, and, indeed, among all 
people who take an interest in political 
((^ economy, the name at the head of this 
sketch is a household word. There will he those 
who, after this recent Republican defeat (1892), 
will seek to deny his ability' and fame, but it will 
evt?r be remembered, whatever m.ay be the fate of 
the celebrated bill which bears his name, that its 
maker was giant enough to ineasiu'e swords with 
(iladstone and other masters of free-trade theories. 

William iMcKinley, Jr., was born at Niles, Ohio, 
.Tanuary 2'.*, 1844, and w.as given his father's 
name. His mother was a Miss Allison, and in 
some way related to Senator Allison. As a boy, 
the rudiments of his education were acquired at 
MeadviUe, Pa., and he enjoyed a partial collegiate 
course and attended school at Poland, Mahoning 
County, Ohio. While still in school, and a youth 
of eighteen, the war broke out, and our subject's 
blood was immediately fired with patriotism. It 
was some time before he could gain the consent of 
his mother to go to the front, but finally overcom- 
ing her objections, enlisted in tlie United Slates 
army, in May of 1861, as a private soldier in the 
Twentj'-third Ohio Infantry. 

William McKinley's rise in his military career 
was rajjid, and he was mustered out of service a 
Captain and breveted Major in September of 1865. 
Throughout that ordeal of fire and sword, he ever 
distinguished himself with marked bravery. After 
the war, he returned to Canton, and by the advice 
of his father turned his attention to the law and 
studied under .Judge Belden. His ability was so 
apparent and his reasoning f.aculties so acute, that 
.ludge Belden took him in as a partner, the part- 
nership lasting until the death of the .Judge. 

The first political move in which Maj. McKin- 
le3' was enlisted was when he became a candidate 
for Prosecuting Attorney of Stark County. He 
was elected and served in that capacity from 1869 
to 1871. Alread3' the eyes of the best politicians 
in the State were turned upon the young man, 
and in 1876 he was nominated for Congressional 
lionors, and was elected to the Forty-fifth Congress 
of 1877, and by successive re-elections served his 
State up to 1888. In March of 1890, he intro- 



duced the well-known McKinley Tariff Bill. It 
was passed amid prognostication of ruin from the 
opposition party, and, indeed, resulted in Jlr. 
McKinley's defeat for re-election, but the follow- 
ing year, 1891, he was elected (Governor of Ohio. 

With this casual glimpse at our subject's public 
life, let us turn to his personal liistor}'. Those who 
are acquainted with the family do not question 
whence he got the indomitable will, the strong 
mental powers, and the modesty which distin- 
guishes him, for both parents are characterized by, 
the strongest sterling traits. Although the father is 
now eighty-three years of age, his mental powers 
are undimmed, and the mother, with her bright 
eyes and rosy-apple cheeks, still has the enthusi- 
asm to incite her family to new trials of mental 
prowess. At eighty-one years of age, she is still 
vigorous and as much interested in the career of 
her noted son as ever. The Major has three 
brothers who are living at the present time: Abner 
is a lawyer in New York City; James, a merchant 
in San Francisco; and IJavid is the Consul of the 
Hawaiian Government in San Francisco. There 
are also two sisters living. Miss Helen still resides 
with her parents in Canton, and Mrs. Duncan lives 
in Youngstown. Miss Anna, well known as a bril- 
liant educationalist, died recently. ;Mrs. May, of 
Poland, is also deceased. 

While the immediate family life of Maj. IMc- 
Kirley absorbs a greater portion of his interest, its- 
members are very limited, comjjrising only him- 
self and wife, to whom he was married in Canton. 
She was a Miss Ida Saxon and a daughter of J. 
A. Saxon, of Canton. The two children that came 
to his home were taken away by death. For 
eighteen years, Mrs. McKinley has been a con- 
firmed invalid, and during that time the devotion 
of her husband, whose love she has kept as fresh 
as in the days of their courtship, has Jjeen beauti- 
ful. They do not live in a home of their own, but 
board in Canton with Mrs. Barber, who is a sister 
of Mrs. McKinley. This is because Mrs. McKinley 
is unable to take the charge of presiding over a 
home herself. She spends her winters with her 
husband in Wjishington, and they then take up 
their quarters at the Ebbitt House. Maj. McKin- 
ley has been brought up in the faith of the Metli- 



1 



112 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



odist Episcopal Church. His petty vices are few: 
he is an inveterate smoker and (■.■m (iiink a ulass 
of wine with a friend. 

During the canipaisjn tlial lias just passed, Gov. 
McKinley lias shown his ))owers of endurance to 
be equal to his i)atriotisni. For a period extend- 
ing over three months, he has been' constantly 
making speeches over a territory extending from 
New York to Nebraska. The number of his 
speeches has sometimes amounted to three or four 
a day, and the rear platform of a Pullman car, 



while surrounded by a crowd of eager listeners, 
has been his frequent rostrum. Those who have 
heard him speak, whether friends or opponents of 
his political opinions, can but have admired the 
logical reasoning, the clear understanding, the 
plain, concise style, and the modesty of demeanor 
of the man wlio canie near being the nominee for 
the Chief Executive. That the future slili holds 
a benediction to the American people in the fate 
of this <;ioat man. liie writer cannot Inil liciievt . 



'4#^>^>^ 



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lit ^^ . iil®ff J 



mwim. 



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— <a i 





INTRODUCTORY. 






5HE time has arrived when it 
becomes the duty of the 
people of this county to per- 
petuate the names of their 
pioneers, to furnish a record 
of their early settlement, 
and relate the story of their 
progress. The civilization of our 
day, the enlightenment of the age 
and the duty that men of the pres- 
ent time owe to their ancestors, to 
themselves and to their posterity, 
demand that a record of their lives 
and deeds should be made. In bio- 
graphical history is found a power 
to instruct man by precedent, to 
enliven the mental faculties, and 
to waft down the river of time a 
safe vessel in which the names and actions of the 
people who contributed to raise this country from its 
primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly 
the great and aged men, who in their prime entered 
the wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their 
heritage, are passing to their graves. The number re- 
maining who can relate the incidents of the first days 
of settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an 
actual necessity exists for the collection and preser- 
vation of events without delay, before all the early 
settlers are cut down by the scythe of Time 

To be forgotten has been the great dread of mankind 
from remotest ages. All will be forgotten soon enough, 
in spite of their best works and the most earnest 
efforts of their friends to perserve the memory of 
their lives. The means employed to prevent oblivion 
and to perpetuate their memory has been in propor- 
tion to the amount of intelligence they possessed. 
Th-i pyramids of Egypt were built to perpetuate the 
names and deeds of their great rulers. The exhu- 
mations made by the archeoiogists of Egypt from 
buried Memphis indicate a desire of those people 



to perpetuate the memory of their achievements. 
The erection of the great obelisks were for the same 
purpose. Coming down to a later period, we find the 
Greeks and Romans erecting mausoleums and monu- 
ments, and carving out statues to chronicle tiieir 
great acliievements and carry them down the ages. 
It is also evident that the Mound-builders, in piling 
up their great mounds of earth, had but this idea — 
to leave sometliing to show that they had lived. All 
these works, though many of them costly in the ex- 
treme, give but a faint idea of the lives and charac- 
ters of those whose memory they were intended to 
perpetuate, and scarcely anything of the masses of 
the people that then lived. The great pyramids and 
some of the obelisks remain objects only of curiosity; 
the mausoleums, monuments and statues- are crum- 
bling into dust. 

It was left to modern ages to establish an intelli- 
gent, undecaying, immutable method of perpetuating 
a full history — immutable in that it is almost un- 
limited in extent and perpetual in its action ; and 
this is through the art of printing. 

To the present generation, however, we are in- 
debted for the introduction of the admirable system 
of local biography. By this system every man, thougl" 
he has not achieved what the world calls greatness, 
has the means to perpetuate his life, his history, 
through the coming ages. 

The scythe of Time cuts down all ; nothing of the 
physical man is left. The monument which his chil- 
dren or friends may erect to his memory in the ceme- 
tery will crumble into dust and pass away; but his 
life, his achievements, the work he has accomplished, 
which otherwise would be forgotten, is perpetuated 
by a record of this kind. 

To preserve the lineaments of our companions we 
engrave their portraits, for the same reason we col- 
lect the attainable facts of their history. Nor do we 
thir.k it necessary, as we speak only truth of them, to 
wait until they are dead, or until those who know 
them are gone: to do this we are ashamed only to 
publish to the world the history of those whose live? 
are unwc'thy of oublic record. 




Hon. John G.Warwick 










rij,-^ ON. JOHN G. WARWICK. August 16, 
ifjlj 1892, was laid to rest the earthly remains 
Jb<^ of John G. Warwick. This dispensation of 
'^^ Providence called out tiie most general 
mourning from the citizens of Massillon, Ohio, 
among whom he lived, and the public men among 
whom his work as a Member of Congress took him, 
and b.v wliom he was greatly respected and beloved. 
He had attained a national reputation as a states- 
man and a leader of the Democratic party, and 
his demise has been the occasion for rehearsing 
the notable events which received the impetus of 
his colossal mind and firm, unswerving will. We 
shall quote largely from the paper published in 
his place of residence, which is Massillon, upon 
the f)ccasion of his decease. 

John (t. Warwick, Representative from the .Six- 
ttenth Ohio District, died in his apartments at 
the Riggs House, Washington, D. C, at twenty 
minutes past nine o'clock, August 14, the re- 
sult of a violent attack of dysentery. Tuesday 
morning, August 2, Mr. Warwick left for New 
York to attend a directory meeting of the Wheel- 
ing & Lake Erie Railroad, and was there seized 
with the illness which proved fatal. The pro- 
tracted heat had not yet ceased and to this is 
mainly due h is sorrowful deatli. He returned late 
on Wednesday night and repaired to his rooms. 
It was known in this city that Mr. Warwick had long 
been a sufferer from stomach troubles, and hence his 
failure to call for a physician at once was not un- 
natural. But upon Thursday evening he did 
summon one, and his estimable wife, who had gone 
to Atlantic City to escape the heat, hurried to his 
side, and was thenceforward unremitting in her de- 
votion. He soon suc('umbed, however, to the dread 



disease, passing away August 14. He retained 
consciousness to the last, and his latest words were 
addressed to his wife. 

John George Warwick was l)orn in Count3" 
Tyrone, Ireland, December 23, 18.30. In 1850, he 
came to this countr}' with his brother, Robert S., 
who now lives near Elton. After a short stay in 
Philadelphia, he came to Navarre, and entered an 
establishment as clerk and book-keeper, but by 
carefully saving his earnings he was soon after- 
ward enabled to embark in business for himself. 
He opened a dry-goods store in 1853, and in a 
short time was recognized as one of the leading 
merchants and business men of Massillon. By his 
business ability, industry and integrity, Mr. War- 
wick acquired considerable wealth, although he 
possessed nothing more than grit and muscle, 
coupled with business tact, when he arrived in 
America, but in a few j-ears he was identified with 
various enterprises. He became Principal over the 
Sippo Valley Mills in 1865; afterward he became 
active in railroad interests and served as a Direc- 
tor in the Massillon dr Cleveland, the Wheeling & 
Lake Erie, and Cleveland & Marietta Railroads. 

From the railroad business Mr. Warwick became 
interested in mines and became one of the most 
successful coal operators in the State. In 1872, 
he gave up merchandising and devoted his busi- 
ness talents to outside enterprises in which he was 
interested. In addition to the other enterprises 
in which he was engaged, he maintained the sup- 
ervision of several large farms in this State, aggre- 
gating one thousand acres in extent. 

Although a consistent and active Democrat, Mr. 
Warwick declined .'dl overtures to .become a can- 
didate until 188,3. when he finally accepted the 



118 



PORTRAIT A^'D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



nomination for Lieutenant-Governor on the ticket 
with Hon. George Hoadley. He has been a liberal 
contributor to the legitimate expenses of the Dem- 
ocratic campaigns, and despite the attack made 
upon him by prejudiced people, professing to rep- 
resent the labor interests, he w.as triumphantly 
elected. He presided as Lieutenant-Governor over 
the Senate of the Sixt^- -sixth General Assembl}-, 
which elected Hon. Henr^' Payne to the United 
States Senate. He discharged the duties devolv- 
ing upon him as second otHcer of tlie State in such 
a manner as to win the confidence and esteem of 
his political opponents. 

On .luly 11, 1890, he received the Democratic 
nomination for Congress in the Sixteenth Ohio 
District, having as his opponent the Hon. William 
McKinlcy. The convention was one of the most 
memorable in the history of congressional politics, 
seventy-four ballots being required for a choice, 
but the result was that our subject was triumphantly 
elected. His prominence was at once recognized in 
the House of Representatives, wherein he took the 
oath of office December 7, 1892. He was made 
Chairman of the Committee on Enrolled Bills, one 
of the four oldest and most important and arduous 
committees of that body. He was also selected as 
a member of the Committee on Public Buildings 
and (irounds. Such treatment of a new member 
was an unusual event, and brought him into the 
closest intimacy with his colleagues. 

With his wife he occupied beautiful rooms at 
the Riggs House, where his callers were alwa^'S 
constant. His attendance upon the sessions of the 
House were punctilious, except when business 
called him from the city. He en jo3-ed Ids life, and 
his health seemed much improved. He was alive 
to every phase of politics and was always a confi- 
dant in the most secret of party plans. Every- 
body liked him and it was often heard that his 
associates regarded him as much for views that 
agreed with theirs, as for his bluntness and stead- 
fastness in asserting those which did not. He 
leaves no speech upon the record, but in the mem- 
ory' of thousands of ccmstituents he will remain as 
the man who secured them manj- a pension, or did 
Other service requiring a Representative's aid. In 
all that pertains to congressional activity, Mr. 



Warwick was considered a conspicuous success. 
He was made the member of the National Con- 
gressional Committee for Ohio. 

He was an earnest advocate of whatever meas- 
ure he espoused, and worked hard to win support 
for it. To him is due the passage of the McGar- 
raghan Bill (outrageously vetoed) giving a poor 
Irishman recourse in court against a band of rob- 
bers who for years unjustly held a quicksilver 
mine. 

About twenty-eight years ago (1892), Mr. War- 
wick was m.arried in Baltimore to Mrs. Maria E. 
Lavake. Her maiden name was Karthaus and her 
father was born in Reemsheid, Prussia. On com- 
ing to this country, he diligently applied himself 
to business, and by his own exertions soon became 
one of the wealthiest ship merchants of the city of 
Baltimore. He was also identified with the settle- 
ment and the business pi'ojects of ihe State of 
Pennsylvania, and on the east banks of the Sus- 
quehanna River there is now a town called bj- his 
name, on the same site upon which hisenterpri.se 
years ago opened a furnace and began a coal busi- 
ness, now in active operation. 

In his religious connections. Mr. Warwick was 
an Episcopalian. In the welfare of Massillon, he 
always maintained an unceasing interest, and was 
identified with manj' of its prominent institutions. 
He was one of the organizers of the Building & 
Loan Association and for a time served as Presi- 
dent. He was Director of the Massillon Water 
Company and owned stock in several different 
coal companies of the city. His son, W. K. L. 
Warwick, will undoubtedh' succeed to his father's 
business interests. He also is one of the prominent 
citizens of Massillon and is an important factor in 
the progress of .Stark County. 



<jl7 EWIS W. GISE. To his skill and handi- 
I (?g) craft, his knowledge of materials and the 
jIL-^ modes of usage best adapted to various 
kinds of buildings, Mr. Gise adds the personal 
qualities which win the respect and friendship of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



119 



those witli whom he associates. He was born in 
Germany, on the Rhine, August 12, 1838, and is a 
son of John J. Gise, wlio was also born in that 
country and was a tailor by trade. 

In 1851, the father of our subject with his fam- 
ily emigrated to the United States, making his way 
directly to Massillon, where he resided until his 
decease, which occurred in his seventj'-sixth year, 
lie was a gentleman who commanded theresiiect of 
all his acquaintances and was a devoted member of 
the St. John's Evangelical Church. His wife, who 
prior to her marriage was known as Charlotte 
Becker, was born near Meisenheim, and departed 
this life in Massillon at the home of our subject. 
Of the eight childien of whom she was the mother, 
only four are living, of whom Lewis W. is the 
youngest. 

He of whom we write was reared to man's estate 
in his native country, and in 1851, having deter- 
mined to try his fortunes in the New World, went 
to London, England, where he set sail on the ves- 
sel "Lizzie Evans," which lauded him in New York 
City, after a voyage of thirty-five days. Young 
Gise then attended the English school summers 
and was employed during the other seasons at 
different lines of work. When reaching his six- 
teenth year, he was apprenticed to learn the car- 
penter's trade under Snyder, Mong Sz Co., with 
whom he remained for three years, and then, having 
mastered that business, spent eighteen months as a 
journeyman, working at his trade. For the two 
succeeding years, he was in the employ of Russell 
tt Co., at the end of which time he began contract- 
ing and building on his own account, in company 
with his brother. After being thus engaged for 
two years, he worked for the same length of time 
for Russell <fe Co., but since 1865 has been in busi- 
ness alone and does all kinds of contracting in his 
line and has erected some of the largest and 
finest buildings in the city, including the Bum- 
merlin Block, the Episcopal parsonage and the 
residences of Jane R. Dunn, Frank R. Webb, Jonas 
Lutz and William Russell and the Sailor's Hotel, 
beside many others. He is the owner of consider- 
able real estate in this vicinity and has a beautiful 
residence on East Main Street. 

Miss Wilhemina Tromp became the wife f)f our 



subject in 1858. Mrs. Gise was born in New York 
State, and by her union with our subject has be- 
come the mother of nine children, namel3': Louisa, 
Mrs. Paul Kirchhofer, whose husband is City Treas- 
urer and a druggist; William, who married Flora 
Beck and is in business with his father; AUie, Mrs. 
Hiar, of Justus; Edward, who married Josie Ryan 
and is residing in California; and Carrie, Charles, 
Frank, Robert, and Minnie, at home. 

Mr. Gise has been honored by his election to the 
position of Alderman of the Fourth Ward, which 
office he has occupied for five years, and during 
that time has served on various important com- 
mittees. He has also been Township Trustee for 
three j'ears and, sociall3', is ex-President of the 
German Pioneer Society and is connected with the 
Ancient Order of United Workmen. In religious 
matters, he is a Deacon of the St. John's Evangel- 
ical Church, to which denomination his wife also 
belongs. He is a sturdy Democrat in politics, has 
been sent as a delegate to various conventions and 
has borne an honorable part in the civic life of his 
county. He is well known throughout this section, 
and his many fine qualities of head and heart have 
placed him high in the regard of his fellow- 
citizens. 



^^ 



^^ 



^^ AMUEL OBERLIN. Many of the most 
^^^ active and enterprising residents of Mas- 
Iv^^J sillon are natives of Stark County, and 
have here spent the greater part of their 
lives. In them we find men of true loyalty to the 
interests of this part of the State, who under- 
stand the needs, social and industrial, of this vi- 
cinit}' and who have a thorough knowledge of its 
resources. They are, therefore, better adapted to 
succeed here than a stranger could be, and are 
l)rol)ably, without exception, warmly devoted to 
the prosperity of their native place. It is, there 
fore, with genuine pleasure we include Mr. Ober- 
lin in this work, for he is not only a native of this 
county and one of the pioneers, bqt is a man 



120 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



whose honesty, uprightness and sociability have 
won him the esteem and respect of all. Although 
pretty well along in years now, and retired from 
the turmoil and worry of life, he is still public- 
spirited, and is interested in all movements for the 
improvement and development of the county. 

He was born in Tuscarawas Township, this 
county, in 1818, and comes of good old Pennsyl- 
vania stock, his father, Peter Oberlin, and his 
grandfather, Adam Oberlin, both being natives of 
that State. The great-grandfatlier, Frederick Ober- 
lin, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and had six 
sons, who stood six feet two inches in height, and 
who were Washington's bod^-guard during the 
Revolutionary War. Adam Oberlin brought his 
family to Ohio in 1811, and made the journey on 
horseback. He first stopped near Canton and la- 
ter located in Tuscarawas Township, this county, 
where he passed the remainder of his days. The 
father of our subject, Peter Oberlin, was born in 
Cumberland Count}', Pa., in 1779, was reared 
there, and there married Miss Susanna Kramer, a 
native of Pennsylvania, and the daughter of Ja- 
cob Kramer, also a native of the Keystone State, 
where he followed farming. After the birth of 
two children, Mr. Oberlin and family concluded 
to move to Ohio, and in 1811 they made the trip 
to this State in a big four-horse wagon. The}- re- 
sided for one year near Canton, but the following 
year located in Tuscarawas Township, this count}^, 
and opened a line farm near Massillon, about two 
hundred acres of Government land. They erected 
a rude log cabin and began making improvements 
in true pioneer stj-le. In those days, the pioneers 
had nothing to help themselves with except their 
own strong hands and sturdy independence, but 
they accomplished much and made possible the 
pleasant homes of to-daj'. Just before his death, 
Mr. Oberlin bought a twenty-acre place in the same 
township. They had one of the old-fashioned 
families, consisting of ten boys and two girls, 
eleven of whom grew to mature years. 

The immediate subject of this sketch, who was 
fourth in order of birth of the above-mentioned 
children, was roared amid pioneer surroundings 
and he was early inured to hard labor, assisting 
liis father in clearing the farm. lie attended 



school in the pioneer log schoolhouse of that day, 
with slab seats, etc., and when thirteen }'ears of age, 
or on the 7th of February, 1831, he came to Massil- 
lon. He was emplo.yed in the drug store of Mr. Mor- 
gan until 1834, when he went to Brookfield and re- 
mained until 1838. After this he was at Bolivar 
until the fall of 1840, and then came to Massillon, 
where he was engaged in clerking for three j-ears. 
Later, he was in partnership with Mr. Humberger 
and Mr. James Harsh, and continued with them 
until 1857, when the firm dissolved partnership. 
Our subject then embarked in business for him- 
self, and bought a building at the corner of Erie 
and JIain Streets. He engaged in the dry-goods 
and grocery business, and went twice a year to 
New York City for fresh goods. At that early 
day tliey were shipped by canal. 

In 1882, he sold out his stock and retired from 
the active duties of life, after spending fifty-one 
years behind the counter, a longer period than an_v 
man in the city can boast of. His pleasant and 
commodious residence in this city is presided over 
by his worthy wife, whose maiden name was Mary 
E. Hofman. She was born in Hagerstown, Md., 
in 1820, and is the daughter of Prof. John E. and 
Catherine (Binkley) Hofman, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania, and Shenandoah County, Va , respectively. 
Her paternal grandfather. Rev. James Hofman, 
was a native of Pennsylvania and of German de- 
scent. He was a minister of the German Reformed 
Church and was one of the pioneer preachers of 
Ohio, coming here at an early date. He died at 
Mansfield. The father of Mrs. Oberlin was a man 
of education and was a well-known and popular 
educator, teaching school for fift}"-two years at 
Hagerstown, Md. Mrs. Oberlin was reared and 
educated in the academy at Hagerstown, and after 
growing up assisted her father in teaching for seven 
years. Her maternal grandfather's name was Jacob 
Binkley. To Mr. and Mrs. Oberlin have been born 
four children, as follows: Mary F., now Mrs. Will- 
iam Yost, of this cit}-; AVilliam J., engaged in the 
insurance business here; Charles E., in the hard- 
ware business, and Samuel H., traveling salesman, 
representing the firm of H. E. Frankenberg, of 
New York City. Although often urged to accept 
some official position, Mr. Oberlin has always re- 



PORTRAIT AND UKXiRAPIIICAL RECORD. 



121 



fused and attended strictly to business. He is a 
member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows 
and is a charter member of tlic Encampment. In 
politics, he is a Republican. His first vote was for 
William Ilenry Harrison in 1840, .and in 1888 he 
cast his vote for Benjamin Harrison. He visited 
the Centennial at Pliiladelphia in 1876. Mrs. 
Oberlin is a member of the ]\Iethodist Episcopal 
Church, and a woman whose womanly virtues are 
well known and aiiprcciated. 



-^^^1 



@^@l 



| gs=4=: -- 



^MD\M C. McDowell is a retired b.anker, 
^/ | l f^''™Gr, and breeder of line sheep, of Can- 

/// lii ton, Ohio. The only pure-bred Dickinson 
<^ Merino sheep in the LTnited States of Amer- 

ica is descended pure from the celebrated thorough- 
bred flock of W. R. Dickinson, of Steubenville, 
Ohio, who had established and preserved the blood 
intact for many years of a flock of Merinos that 
were descended pure from sheep imported from 
Spain in the year 1802, by Colonel David Humph- 
reys, of Derby, New Haven County, Conn. These 
sheep were the pride of Mr. Dickinson's heart, and 
he never parted with an\' of the ewes during his 
life, and few of the rams. They were separatel\" 
kept and distinctly marked with paint and special 
ear marks, which marks were different from the 
flock he kept on shares, and the grades in which 
he dealt extensively. 

We boldly assert the fact that there is no indi- 
vidual or committee who can truthfully claim ori- 
gin for their sheep to the reserve flock of Mr. Dick- 
in.sou — his own pure Spanish-Merino flock, also 
his thorough-bred Humphreys Spanish, the ewes of 
which were never sold during his life-time, for Mr. 
Dickinson compelled a strict account of these sheep, 
as Mr. McDowell testifies under oath in this 
volume. 

Therefore any claims to having received from 
Mr. Dickinson any sheep of this flock would be 
unqualifiedly false unless attested by certificate of 
sale and purchase from Mr. Dickinson, stating 



clearly to whom he had sold and of what flock 
the sheep were, and so on by transfer to the present 
time. It is also claimed that there is no one 
who ever received any of Mr. Dickinson's pure 
IMerino sheep after his death, who kept them 
pure and free from inferior and base blood, hut 
James McDowell, the father of Adam C, of Canton, 
Stark County, Ohio. 

The record of flocks herein are those descended 
from his flock, sold under certificate of sale, pur- 
chase, blood and pedigree, an accurate account of 
sale, purchase, breeding, date of birth and death 
being now kept and filed with the Secretaiyof the 
Dickinson Merino Sheep Record Companv by the 
breeders owning sheep, and included in the organ- 
ization known as the Dickinson INIerino Sheei) 
Record Company, organized at Canton, Ohio, .June 
3, 1884, certificates of record having been issued 
by the Secretary since that time to all parties for- 
warding pedigrees tracing within the prescribed 
rules of record adopted by the company and in- 
corporated in the by-laws of the Record Companj'. 

The sheep herein recorded are of true Spanish 
origin, and are traced to the purchase and selection 
of the best two ewe lambs and second best ram 
lamb of the last crop of lambs bred by W. R.Dick- 
inson, selected with the greatest care by James 
McDowell (Mr. Dickinson's shepherd) immediately 
after Mr. Dickinson's death, and being descended 
from the marked Humphreys flock, and sired 1)3- 
Bolivar, the winner of the silver cup at Baltimore, 
Md., in 1826. A choice selection of two ewes and 
ram, imported by Col. Humphreys from Spain, by 
accurate knowledge was the basis of Mr. Dickinson's 
founding flock. This family of Merino sheep, 
brought to this countiy bj' a patriot, Col. Humph- 
rey', and preserved by an intelligent and far-seeing 
breeder, W. R. Dickinson, have been brought to 
their present high state of perfection by a correct 
and faithful observance of the laws of pure breed- 
ing by James McDowell. 

The history and observations of James McDow- 
ell, in his life work as a breeder and wool-grower, 
are best exemplified in the family of IMcrinos 
with which the effort of his life has been identified, 
and which he named 111 honor of Mr. Dickinson, 
who gave him his early training, to which expeii- 



122 



PORTRAJT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ence he attributes his success at the present daJ^ 
He has been with them, almost dailj', for a period 
of sixty-four yeai-s. ending April 1, 1887, com- 
mencing with herding them on the plains of the 
western part of Stark County, where now homes 
and small farms meet the eye of the traveler. 

The system of breeding and feeding which he 
has followed, and the long life which Providence 
has spared to him have, however, given him evident 
satisfaction, for he has seen the family of Merino 
sheep of his choice, acquire, b}' reason ot their mer- 
its, the ascendanej- overall families of Merino sheep 
in the United States in point of excellence, hardi- 
ness, form, fleece, trueness of type and uniforraitv of 
breeding. The mutton qualities of this family of 
sheep being now attained, with the highest degree 
of puritj' of blood and production of superior 
fine Delaine wool, the result becomes at once, upon 
introduction, the best sheep for the general flock- 
master, strengthened by the acknowledged f.ict of 
the Humphre3-s sheep, originally imported, being 
of the best that the flocks in Spain contained al the 
time of their importation. 

Adam C. ilcDowell was born in Stark County, 
Ohio. June 12, 1844, and was the third of eight 
children born to James and Eliza (Heldcnbrand) 
McDowell, both natives of Pennsylvania. Both 
of the parents moved to Stark County, Ohio, with 
llieir parents when young, and settled with them 
in Plain Township. After marrying, they settled 
on a farm and Mr. McDowell made a specialty of 
sheep-breeding. He became prominentl3- known 
all over the country in that capacity and was vcrj- 
successful. His death occurred on his farm in 
1890, when over eighty-one yeai-s of age. He was 
the owner of two fine farms, one comprising one 
hundred and sixty acres and the other one hundred 
and ninety acres, upon which were valuable build- 
ings, sheep-sheds, etc. The land is in a high state 
of cultivation. The mother was a worthy member 
of the Lutheran Church, and died in that faith in 
1868. She was the daughter of Jlichael Hel- 
dcnbrand. 

Adam C. McDowell passed the early years of his 
life on his father's farm and in attending the dis- 
trict school during the winter months. He subse- 
quently entered Mt, Union College, where he pur- 



sued his studies for several terms. Returning to 
the farm, he began tilling the soil. After the death 
of his brother T. C, who was Cashier of the Farm- 
ers' Bank, he removed to Canton and became a 
Director in the bank, and subsequently Vice-presi- 
dent. He held his interest in the bank until 1891. 
when he sold out and turned hisattention to farm- 
ing and sheep-breeding, being the owner of a fine 
farm in Green Township, Summit County, this 
State. There he is turning his attention to the 
breeding of fine ^lerino shee]). which were taken 
from his father's flock. He also makes a specialty 
of breeding thoroughbred Jersey cattle. 

Mr. McDowell was mairied to IMiss Julia Correll, 
daughter of Samuel Correll, and they have two 
children, a daughter and sou. The youngest child, 
Charles Sumner, is a student, and Alice Car}-, the 
eldest, is .also attending school. In politics, Mr. 
McDowell is a Republican. He has a good resi- 
dence at No. 205 North Cleveland Avenue. 






JI^ATHER THOMAS FRANCIS WASHING- 
f^ TON MAIION, pastor of the St. Joseph's 
il Catholic Church at iMassillon, is a very 
learned and clever gentleman, and was born at 
Cleveland, this .State. November 27, 1863. His 
father, Patrick Mahon. was born in County Ross- 
common. Ireland, where he followed the combined 
occupations of a farmer and tailor. About 1860, 
the elder Mr. Mahon emigrated to the United States 
and. locating in Cleveland, engaged in the mer- 
chant-tailoring business. He is now living a re- 
tired life in that city. His wife, the mother of our 
subject, was Miss Ellen, daughter of James Wash- 
ington, born in the North of England. Mrs. Ma- 
hon, however, like her husband, was born in 
Ireland. Her father w.is a cooper b\- trade, and, 
after emigrating to this country, died in the For- 
est City. 

Our subject was the fifth in order of birth in the 
parental family of fourteen children, ten of whom 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



123 



grew to mature years. He received a good educa- 
tion, his pioneer studies being conducted in the 
St. Patrick's P.-irochi.il School. In 1877. he entered 
St. Charles' College at Baltimore, where he took a 
six-years course, and later spent five and one-half 
yeai-s as a student of St. Mary's, at Cleveland. 
Our subject was ordained. December 18, 1888, bj' 
Bishop Gilmore. and his first charge was at Saline- 
ville. this State, where he was pastor of St. 
Patrick's Church for thirteen months. He was 
then recalled as Assistant to Bishop Gilmore, of 
St. .John's Cathedral in Cleveland, where he re- 
mained until the death of that gentleman. 

September 1, 1891, Father Mahon was placed in 
charge of St. Joseph's Church, of Massillon, which 
was started as a mission in 1851, by Father Cam- 
pion. The church, which will cost ^-10,000, is in 
process of construction on East Soutii Street, and 
is the finest in the county. It is 60x132 feet in 
dimensions, with a graceful tower one hundred and 
eighty feet in height. The building will be fur- 
nished in a most elegant manner, and due credit 
should be given Father Mahon, who has worked 
industriously to accomplish this end. The congre- 
gation numbers twelve hundred membere, and is 
one of the largest in the county. 

Our subject, socially, is a member of the Cath- 
olic Mutual Benefit Association, and is a presiding 
ollieer of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and is 
very popular, especially among his own people. 



m^ 



z^^EORGE .STANSBERGER. Many of the 
i|[ — honored veterans of the late war, who had 
^^^Jl scarceh' attained manhood when the Rebel- 
lion broke out, are now quietly engaged in various 
industrial occupations. This class is well repre- 
sented in Stark County by many of its most thrift}- 
and industrious farmers, one of whom is the sub- 
ject of this biographical sketch. His .agricultural 
interests are centered on section 29, Bethlehem 
Township, and are in a flourishing condition. Mr. 
Stansljerger is one of the native-born citizens of 



this State, his place of birth being in Tuscarawas 
County, and the date thereof July 13, 1840. He 
is a son of Adam and Mary Stansberger, who were 
natives of Germany. 

The parents of our subject emigrated to the 
New World prior to their marriage, and were 
married in Tuscarawas County, this State, where 
their decease occurred. Our subject w.as reared 
amid the pioneer scenes of his native county, 
receiving but a limited education in the early 
subscription schools of his boyhood. He can 
well remember when that part of the country was 
but little developed, and wild animals roamed at 
will across the prairies and through the forests. 
He was in the flush and vigor of early manhood, 
when, with true patriotism, he enlisted to aid in 
suppressing the Rebellion, becoming a member of 
Company K. Fifty-first Ohio Infantry, in October, 
1861. "With his regiment, he formed a part of 
Sherman's armj', and participated in the important 
battles of Stone River. Lookout Mountain. Mis- 
sion Ridge, Chickamauga, Resaea, siege of Atlanta 
and Ringold. He was finallj' honorably dis- 
charged, November 2.5, 1864, having shown him- 
self at all times and on all occasions a good soldier, 
who had the interests of his countr}- at heart. 

After his three years' hard service in the army, 
Mr. Stansberger returned to his native State, and 
.January 4, 1865, was married to Miss Nancy Bix- 
ler, and by her became the father of four children: 
John "W.. Sarah A. E. (Mi-s. Marion Truck), Ida 
May and Cyrus Clifford. Our subject is the pro- 
prietor of eighty acres of land inherited by his 
wife, which his good judgment has pl.aced under 
excellent cultivation, and the prosperity that he 
has attained has been brought about b\- his own 
labors, as he is practically a self-made man. 

Mr. Stansberger h.as served his township as Road 
Supervisor for three years, and is always found 
willing to do anything that will in any wav en- 
hance the welfare of his adopted township. He is 
greatly interested in school affairs, and has served 
elliciently as Director for some time. His place is 
among our most useful citizens, and the respect in 
which he is held liy all shows him to be a man of 
genuine worth. His service in the Union arm\' 
has been recognized by the Government, which 



124 



PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



awarded him a pension of $12 per mouth. In po- 
litical relations, he is a believer in the principles 
of the Republican party. He is a man of excellent 
habits, who is tiiorougkly trustworthy, and in him 
the United Brethren Church finds one of its most 
zealous members. 



^, ANIEL S. SMITH, one of the wealthy and 
most prominent farmers in Stark County, 
has a fine estate in Plain Township, where 
he is engaged in tilling the soil to good 
advantage. By the exercise of thrift and prudence 
in the management of his affairs, by skill and strict 
attention to his calling, he has placed himself in 
the front rank among the progressive agiiculturists 
of this section. 

A native of this county, our subject was born 
on section 5, Canton Township, September 12, 
18;58, and is the son of John .1. Smith, who was born 
in Pennsylvania in 1811. Grandfather Daniel 
Smith was also a native of the Keystone State, 
and on coming to this State in a very early day, 
made the trip over the mountains with wagon and 
team. His first location was made in Plain Town- 
ship, on the property now occupied by Eli Smith, 
his son. He was a hard-working, industrious man, 
and at his decease left his family a comfortable 
[)roperty. He continued to reside on the farm 
which he had developed from the wilderness until 
all his children were grown and established in 
homes of their own, when he took up his abode 
east of New Berlin and there passed his last years. 
He was a very religions man and a consistent 
member of the Lutheran Church. Politically, he 
cast a straight Democratic vote, and was always 
greatly interested in local affairs and gave liber- 
ally of Ills time and means toward the furtherance 
of all elevating measures. 

The father of our subject received his education 
in the district school, near his home, and being 
trained to farm pursuits, when starting out on his 
own account, located oii property just north of 



Canton, where he owned eighty acres of excellent 
land, which by good judgment and industry he 
placed under good til'age, and reaped therefrom a 
competence. Like his father before him, he w.hs a 
member of the Lutheran Church, and at his death, 
which occurred in 1865, he was fifty-four years of 
age. In early life a Whig, he later joined the Re- 
publican party, being a strong Abolitionist. 

The maiden name of the mother of our subject 
was Nancj' Schriver; she was born in what is now 
the prosperous city of Canton, and was the 
daughter of David and Mary Schriver, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who, on coming to this section in an 
early day. located in Canton Township, where the 
father farmed and at the same time operated a dis- 
tillery. He was a Democrat in politics, and li\ed 
to attain a good age, as did also his wife. 

He of wiiom we write was third in order of 
birth in the parental family of eleven children, 
two of whom are deceased, Susan and Henry. 
Those living are Mary A., our subject, ,Tere- 
miah. William, Harriet, Orlando, Amanda, Hiram 
and Emma. The mother of these children is 
still living at the age of eighty-one years, and 
makes her home on the old farm, located just out- 
side the corporate limits of the city of Canton. 
She is a most estimable and worthy lady and a 
devoted member of the German Reformed Church. 

Daniel, of this sketch, was reared on the old 
homestead and acquired a good practical e<iuca- 
tion in the district school, supplementing the 
knowledge gained therein by attendance at the 
schools of Canton. AVhen nineteen years of age, 
being then ready to earn his own living, he 
learned the trade of a car[)enter. at wiiiih lie 
worked by the day for five years. Then enhuging 
his business so as to combine contracting and 
building, he was thus engaged for a period of six- 
teen years, and during that time established a rep- 
utation as a skilled and relialile workman through- 
out the entire county, where are yet standing 
many buildings which he erected. 

The marriage of our subject with Miss Lydia 
Trump was solemnized October 30, 1865. Mrs. 
Sinitli was born in Canton Township, February 3, 
1842, and is the daughter of George J. and Rachel 
(Weaver) Trump, natives of Maiyland, who later 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



125 



removed to this county, where they were ranked 
among its earliest settlers. To Mr. .ind Mrs. Smitli 
lias been born a family of five children: Loretta, 
Elmer, Ora, Ivj' and Lester. Our subject located 
upon his present farm in 1882, and in this locality 
he is held in high esteem as a loyal citizen, a pro- 
gressive, public-spirited man, and one who is true 
to others in all the relations that he sustains 
towards tiicm. He possesses excellent business 
qualifications, and as a man of sterling integrity is 
well known throughout the county. 

In the spring of 1864, Mr. Smith enlisted in the 
Union army and joined Company C,One Uun(h-ed 
and Sixtj'-second Ohio Infantry. He was placed 
on dut^- in his State, and being taken sick in the 
latter part of September, returned home, and when 
fully recuperated the war had come to a close. 
Mr. Smith is the proprietor of ninety-four acres of 
land, upon which are all the modern improve- 
ments in the way of buildings and machinery. 
His large frame iiouse is a model of neatness, and 
the manner in which it is furnisiicd indicates its 
inmates to be people of refined tastes and ample 
means. He devotes his time and attention to 
mixed farming, and has been more than ordinarily 
successful in all his undertakings. In his political 
affiliations, he casts a Republican vote during elec- 
tions, and as one of the representative men of tlie 
county, he justly deserves a place in this volume. 



I DAM CLAYMEN, Erecting Foreman of the 
Massillon Bridge Company, is an old and 

IS' respected citizen of this county, and has 
aided greatly in its upbuilding and devel- 
opment. He is a native of this count}', having 
been born in Jackson Township, November 1.5, 
1840, and is a son of Henry Claj^men, who was 
born in Prussia, Germany. The father was mar- 
ried in his native country, and emigrating to 
America in 1832, located in the above-named town- 
ship, where he was engaged in the combined occu- 



pations of farmer and coal miner. He was a Luth- 
eran in religion, and was highly respected in his 
place of residence. 

The mother of our subject, who was also born in 
Prussia, bore the maiden name of Henrietta Smith. 
She became the mother of six children, four of 
whom are living. Two brothers of our subject, 
Henry and Peter, were soldiers in the late Civil 
War, being members of Compan\' A, Thirteenth 
Ohio Infantry. The former died of wounds re- 
ceived during that period, and the latter's death 
was the result of a spell of fever. Adam Clayinen, 
of this sketch, had the advantages of a district- 
school education, and when cigiiteen 3'ears of age, 
was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade un- 
der Jlong iVr Snyder, in this city. He remained in 
their employ for five years, at whicli time he was 
eng.aged by Russell & Co. in their wood de|)art- 
ment for about seven years. 

Having saved a sufficient sum to enable him to 
start in business on his own account, our subject 
engaged in the grocery business, after abandoning 
his trade, in company with a Mr. Williams, and the 
firm operated successfully under the style of AVill- 
iams ife daymen for four 3'ears. In the spring of 
187.5, he was engaged by the Massillon Bridge 
Company as Erecting Foreman, and has been in 
their emploj' ever since, with the exception of 
eighteen months spent witii King Brothers' Bridge 
Company, of Cleveland. He has erected bridges in 
Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, 
Kentucky', Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New 
York and Massachusetts. Mr. Claymen is a man 
of superior intelligence and force of character, and 
one who is the happy possessor also of that energy 
that seems somehow to be the magic wand that 
transforms a poor beginning into a most flattering 
end. He has been largel}' instrumental in the up- 
building of tills city, and ever\- day furnishes us 
examples of the wonderful results that industry 
and natural ability' can accomplish. 

September 18, 18.56, our subject and Miss Eme- 
line F. Williams were united in marriage. Mrs. 
Claj'inen is tlie daughter of Eli Williams, and the 
granddaughter of Robert Williams, who was born in 
London, England, and came to America in an early 
day. He was an attornej' near New Philadelphia, 



126 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Ohio, where his death occurred. The father of Mrs. 
Claymen was a butcher by trade, and departed this 
life on a farm which he owned in tiackson Town- 
ship, this county. The maiden name of his wife was 
Frances Sprankle, the daughter of Joliu Sprankle, 
of Pennsj'lvania, and an early settler in Jackson 
Township, where he operated a. saw and grist mill. 
Mrs. AVilliams was the elder of two children in her 
parents' famil}', and died in this county a consis- 
tent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Our subject is a stanch Republican, in politics, and 
his home, though modest, is an abode of comfort 
and a center from which pleasing influences ex- 
tend. 



I^+^I 



"jflOHN C. SHAFER. Perhaps no better ex- 
ample of pluck and perseverance could read- 
^^ ily be found in Stark County, than is 
\^^ aflforded in the life of Mr. Shafer. He com- 
menced the battle of life without assistance, and 
by dint of innate ability, determination, and an hon- 
orable life, has become one of the leading and in- 
fluential citizens of Plain Township and the pos- 
sessor of a valuable estate, which the visitor to his 
home will see is in thorough tillage and furnished 
with various improvements, which add to tiie value 
of the land and increase the comfort of those who 
occupy it. 

Born in Lancaster County, Pa., April 11, 1831, 
our suliject is a son of Jacob Shafer, who was also a 
native of that county, his birth occurring in 1793. 
The grandfather, who bore the name of John, was 
of German descent and died in middle life. He 
was a farmer by occupation and served asa soldier 
in the War of 1812. Jacob Shafer was reared by 
his worth}' father to the pursuit of an agriculturist, 
and, when moving to this State in 1832, was ac- 
companied on his journey over the mountains by 
his wife and six children. Locating in Jackson 
Township, he there rented land for five years, and 
finally purchasing a small place of his own, resided 
on it until 1855, when he made Ins home with our 
subject, where the decease of his wife occurred. 



He then took up his abode with his daughter, Mrs. 
Rice, of Perry Township, where he spent his last 
days, dying at the advanced age of eighty j-ears. 
He was a member ot the German Reformed Church, 
and as a man of excellent habits was respected b}' 
the entire community. In his political relations, 
he always cast a Democratic vote. 

Mrs. Sarah (Connell) Shafer, tiie mother of our 
subject, was a native of Ireland, having been born 
in Dublin, and emigrated to America with her par- 
ents when SIX years of age. Locating with them 
in the Keystone State, she there met and married 
Jacob Shafer and became the mother of seven 
children, of whom those deceased are Mary A., 
Harriet, David J. and Eliza. Those living are 
Martin W., John C. and Sarah A. Mrs. Shafer was 
an active member of the German Reformed Church, 
and died in April, 1859, when fifty-seven 3'ears 
of age. 

The original of this sketch was an infant of one 
year when he was brought by his parents to this 
county, and when old enough to do so attended 
school in the primitive log cabin. The privileges 
offered at that period were not equal to those at 
the present day, but he took advantage of the o])- 
portunities given him in the acquirement of knowl- 
edge, attending school mostly during the winter 
months. His father being in limited circumstances, 
he was obliged to do for himself at the early age 
of fifteen years, and for two years was engaged b^- 
one man, receiving the first year $1.50 per month, 
and the second year double that sum. At the ex- 
piration of that time, he learned the trade of a 
shoemaker, which business he prosecuted during 
the winter, and was employed on the farm in the 
summer season. 

The marriage of Mr. Shafer with Miss Eliza 
Smith was solemnized April 28, 1858. The lady, 
who was born in this township, December 28, 
1837, bore him two children, Harve^', who is de- 
ceased, and Marj' L. He rented land for a year 
after his marriage and then, following his trade for 
ten years in succession, saved a sufficient sum to 
purchase his present farm, of which he became the 
owner in 1873. It contains fifty-five acres, iand is 
as fine and well-cultivated a farm as m.a}- be found 
in the neighborhood. He has greatlv increased 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



127 



its value since it came into his possession by erect- 
ing thereon a good set of neatly-arranged farm 
buildings, and otherwise improving it. He was 
engaged in farming and stock-raising up to the 
past few years, since which time liis son-in-law has 
carried on its operations. He has a neat frame 
house on the place and a large barn, which gives 
ample room in which to store large quantities of 
grain. 

Mr. and Mrs. Shafer are active members of the 
German Reformed Church and take a part in 
all that tends to increase the material prosperity 
and personal welfare of all about them. Our sub- 
ject is a Democrat in politics, and has held the 
office of Township Assessor. He has been a mem- 
ber of the School Board for six years and is a 
bright, wide-awake man, endowed with fine traits 
of character, which have won for him the confi- 
dence of all about him. 



'•^'xx:>^-ycy> 



^^m^m^ 



^^APT. WILLIAM CASTLEMAN. Among 
(l(^ the many prominent, enterprising and suc- 
^^>y cessful business men of Stark County, Ohio, 
whose biography it is a pleasure to give among the 
honored ones of this locality, is the worthy gentle- 
man whose name heads this sketch. He is actively 
engaged in the lumber business at the present time, 
is prompt and energetic in all his business transac- 
tions and is respected alike for his business and 
social standing. A native of Kendall, Ohio, Mr. 
Castleman was born on tlie 22d of February, 1827, 
and comes of good old German stock. 

His immediate progenitor, John Castleman, was 
a native of the Keystone State, born in Little 
Marsh, and altliough reared to the arduous duties 
of the farm, he did not adopt farming as his chosen 
calling, but, instead, learned the carpenter's and 
joiner's trade under Mr. Patton. When a young 
man, he came to Ohio, located first in Carroll 
Connty, and about 1812 or 1813 he located in 
Kendall, where he followed his trade, assisting in 
building warehouses, stores, boats, etc. He was 



one of the industrious citizens of the county and 
was active!}' engaged in his business until his death 
in 1846, when fift3'-four years of age. He married 
Miss Margaret Meek, a native of Maryland, and 
the daughter of Robert Meek, who came to Ohio 
at an early date and settled in this count}'. Later, 
Mr. Meek moved to Bristol, and from there to 
Medina, where he passed the remainder of hisda^ys. 
Mrs. Castleman made her home with her son, the 
subject of this sketch, until her death, which oc- 
curred in Massillon in 1876, when about seventy- 
four years of age. She was a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. Mr. Castleman had two brothers 
in the Indian Wars. 

The original of this notice was the fifth in order 
of birth of nine children, seven of whom grew to 
mature years, and onebesideour subject is now liv- 
ing, George, who made his home in Massillon un- 
til 1892, when he moved onto a farm near Aurora, 
Portage Count}-, Ohio. Om- subject's early life 
did not differ materially from that of the average 
pioneer boy, who is expected to contribute to his 
own support as soon as he becomes physically able 
to perform any kind of manual labor, and the 
most important part of whose education is sup- 
posed to be his industrial training. AVhile his fa- 
cilities for obtaining an education were somewhat 
limited, he attended school, taught in the rude log 
cabin of pioneer days, with reasonable regularity 
a portion of each year, and at an early age worked 
at the carpenter's trade with his father. 

When nineteen years of age, he went on the Ohio 
Canal as bowsmau for three months, and he after- 
ward purchased a canal boat, the "Saratoga," and 
was engaged in carrying wheat and tiour between 
Massillon and Cleveland. A number of years later, 
he built a new boat, the "Rowena,"' and sold the 
"Saratoga," afterward trading the latter for an old 
boat which he ran for one year. He then built anew 
one, the "Massillon," but was not satisfied with this 
and purchased another one, almostnew,and named 
it the "Massillon Mills." This he ran for several 
years, and afterward became owner of the "Acadia" 
and the "Baltic," also the "Albany." After remain- 
ing on the canal for nineteen years, he sold out, in 
1865, and embarked in the lumber business in Mas- 
sillon. This he has continued ever since, and for 



128 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



two _vears was with H. K. Dickey. After tlie death 
of the latter, our subject purchased his interest. 
He carries a complete stock of general lumber and 
building material, and has an extensive business. 
His large yard is located at the corner of Oak and 
Canal Streets, and is 144x150 feet in dimensions. 
Mr. Castleman is the oldest lumber dealer in the 
city, and has won an excellent reputation as a 
business man, as well as citizen. He has a good 
residence at No. 260 East Main Street, and formerly 
owned considerable real estate. 

He was married in Ma.ssillon in September, 1885, 
to Miss Elizabeth Howald,a native of Switzerland, 
who came here when a child with her parents. 
Her father died here in 1885. Mr. Castleman was 
Township Trustee for two terms and has held other 
local positions. He is a stanch supporter of Re- 
publican principles. He is one of the oldest settlers 
in the city, and has seen all the improvements 
made in it during the last quarter of a century. 
He was very successful on the canal and had very 
few accidents, lakinj, into consideration the length 
of time he was Captain. 



1^ SQUIRE 
jla of this J 
/ IL^ County 



SQUIRE ABRAM BOWMAN. In the death 
gentleman, the citizenship of Stark 
suffered a loss. During his resi- 
dence here, he won a high place among the most 
skillful and enterprising farmers and stock-raisers 
who were instrumental in developing Tuscarawas 
Township, and the farm which he improved bj' 
unremitting toil is one of the best in the place. 

Mr. Abram Bowman was born December 15, 
1813, in Pennsylvania, and was the son of Abra- 
ham and Barbara (Hershey) Bowman, also natives 
of the Keystone State. He grew to manhood in 
his native State, and was educated in the subscrip- 
tion schools of that period, and later added to 
the knowledge gained therein by reading and ob- 
servation. He taught school for a number of 
years after coming to tliis countiy, and was a man 
possessing a large fund of practical information. 

Mr. Bowman owed much of his prosperity to 



the fact that in his marriage with Miss Susanna 
Kohr, December 27, 1838, he secured a wife who 
was devoted to his interests, and was in every 
sense a helpmate. Mrs. Bowman survives her 
husband, and is ably m.anaging the valuable es- 
tate that is left her. She is possessed of much busi- 
ness capacity, is endowed with a clear head, and 
understands well how to care for her interests so 
as to produce the best results. She was born in 
Washington, Md., June 13, 1815, and is the daugh- 
ter of Christian and Elizabeth (Thomas) Kohr, 
who were natives of Pennsylvania and of German 
descent. She was only two 3"ears of age when she 
was brought by her parents to this county, they 
making location on an uncultivated tract of land 
in the woods of Tuscarawas Township. Her edu- 
cation was such as was offered by the schools of 
Ohio in her youth, and here she grew to mature 
years and married our subject. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Bowman was granted a fam- 
ilj' of eight children, seven of whom are living, 
namely: Mary, tlie wife of E. H. Pocock; .John, Sam- 
uel B., Benjamin, Abram H., Susan C'.,and Charles. 
Jacob, who was the eldest of the family, is de- 
ceased. After his marriage, our subject located in 
Tuscarawas Township, where he was residing at the 
time of his decease, which occurred March 10, 
1885. He was a man of fine mental endowments, 
of strong character, and possessed an indomitable 
will, and more than ordinary business talent. Tiiese 
traits made him a leader, not only in his calling, 
but in politics and the civil life of his adopted 
county. He was an active member of the Repub- 
lican party and was called upon by his fellow- 
townsmen to serve in the responsible office of Jus- 
tice of the Peace, which he filled with entire satis- 
tion to all concerned. 

In religious affairs, Mr. Bowman was an influen- 
tial member of the United Brethren Church, which 
body he served as Class-leader, Steward and Trus- 
tee. During his life he was interested in all meas- 
ures for the promotion of his section, and was al- 
ways found to be obliging and courteous, and was 
popular with all classes. The estate, which fell to 
his wife,' contains ninety-seven acres of finely-cul- 
tivated land, which stand as a monument to his 
efficiency in business affairs. 







-^ ^.it-i^nfT 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, 



131 



<| I^ILLIAM C. GRANT. It is not ease but 
\/\/l' '^ffo'"'' ^^^^' niakes tlie noblest men. There 
^P^ is perliaps no station in life where diffi- 
culties do not have to be encountered and olistacles 
overcome. The early citizens of Stark Count}' had 
many obstacles to vanquish in settling up a new 
country, for the land was uncultivated, and the 
surrounding expanse lileak and inhospitable. AVith 
every passing year, the standard of civilization has 
been raised, and through the efforts of the steady 
pioneers the county has attained a proud position 
among others in the State of Ohio. 

Our subject, who is at present residing in Beth- 
lehem Township, was born February 23, 1818, to 
Joseph and Martha (Crawford) Grant, natives of 
Pennsylvania. William C. was the eldest in the 
family, and remained until sixteen years of age in 
Washington County, Pa., where he received his 
education in the early subscription school. In 
1833, in company with his parents, he emigrated 
to this State and located in Sugar Creek Township, 
this county, where the family was ranked among 
its earliest settlers. Here the father improved a 
good farm, which he resided upon until his de- 
cease in 1864. The family was a large one, those liv- 
ing being our subject, Joseph, Edward M., John 
A., Jesse, Alonzo T., Rebecca and Melissa D. Those 
deceased were Jeremiah, Keziah, and Cassandra 
Jane, Mrs. McGir. 

After reaching his majority, young (irant went 
to Taylorsville, this State, and was engaged there 
for a short time in the grocery business. Later, 
returning to this count}-, he was engaged as clerk 
with the mercantile firm of H. & D. AUman, of 
Navarre, with whom he remained for a twelve- 
month. At the expiration of that time, he began 
buying and shipping cattle, which at first he drove 
on foot to Pittsburgh. Later, however, as he began 
bu3-ing in larger quantities, he drove the animals 
across the mountains to market in Eastern Penn- 
sylvania. He was employed in this line of work 
for some fifteen years, during ten of which he was 
in partnership with a younger brother, Jeremiah. 

In Apiil, 1850, Miss Ruth Johnson, who was 
born March 8, 1838, in Wayne County, Ohio, be- 
came the wife of our subject. Four of the six 
children born to them arc living, namely: James 
6 



J., an attorney at Canton, this State; Edward L.; 
Horace S., a physician and surgeoo of Crescent 
City, Cal.; and Yenzo, a student in Harvard Uni- 
versity. After his marriage, Mr. Grant began life 
on a farm in his township, and owes his pleasant 
and prosperous condition solely to his own per- 
sistent labors. He invested his money judiciously, 
and now owns a fine property, including four 
hundred and sixty-five acres of valuable land in 
this township, three hundred and eighty acres of 
land in Knox County, and four hundred and 
eighty acres in Eaton County, Mich., as well as a 
lot in Lansing. 

In his career our subject has shown himself to 
be possessed in a marked degree of those faculties 
that are requisite to success — sagacity, far-reaching 
forethought and practical tenacity of purpose. 
Underlying all these traits are those of high prin- 
ciples, that have gained him the confidence of his 
fellow-citizens. He is a Republican in his political 
relations, and an active worker in this part}'. 

Mrs. Grant is a daughter of James and Mary 
Johnson, of Wayne County, this State. Her 
brothers bore the names of Sinclair W., William 
W. and Isaac, the two latter being deceased. She 
is a consistent Christian woman and a member of 
the Lutheran Church. Mr. Grant, whose portrait 
appears on the accompanying page, has done much 
toward the upbuilding of this county, and is rec- 
ognized as a valuable acquisition to its citizenship. 
He is prompt "and methodical in his business 
habits, possesses good financial talent and tact in 
the management of affairs, and is without doubt 
one of the wealthiest men in the county. 



W OHN II. DWYER. Conspicuous among the 
I representative citizens of Stark County, 
-=^ j Ohio, now prominent in their different call- 
^^/J ings, none have been more successful or 
displayed more good judgment in the manage- 
ment of their affairs than the gentleman whose 
name is mentioned above. Although formerly a 



132 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 



very promiucnt agriciiUufist of the county, and a 
mail wliose good sense on all matters relating to 
the farm was recognized by all, he is at present an 
active meinlier of the Empire Clay Company. 

Mr. Dwyer claims IMichigan as his native State 
and was born near Dexter, Washtenaw County, on 
the 1.5th of September, 1842. He is of Irish parent- 
age, his parents, James and Mary (Bahan) Dwyer, 
being natives of that countr3-. Like man}' others 
of that much down-trodden race, the elder Mr. 
Dwyer's day dream w.as for liberty and the right 
to cope with his fellow-men on an equal footing In 
the battle of life, and .as a consequence, when 
seventeen years of age, he emigrated to the 
"land of the free." The mother was but seven 
years of age when siie emigrated with her parents 
to America and settled with them in Michigan. 
After marriage, the parents of our subject moved 
to La Porte County, Ind., and there made their 
home for many years. There the father's death oc- 
curred in 1860. 

The original of this notice was fifth in order of 
birth of a large famil3', and it fell on him to assist 
his mother in taking care of the younger children, 
after the death of the father. In 1869, he went to 
South Bend, Ind., and when twenty-eight years of 
.age was married there, on the 7th of Ma_y, 1872, to 
Catherine L. Maudru, a native of Stark County, 
Ohio, born October 13, 1845, but who was residing 
in South Bend at the time of her marriage. Our 
subject made his home in South Bend uulil 1878, 
after which he went to Poweshiek County, Iowa, 
and bought eighty acres of wild land. This he 
immediately began improving and here he con- 
tinued to reside for twelve years. On the 1st of 
April, 181)0, he left the farm,altliough he still owns 
it, and moved to Louisville, where he became the 
fourth partner in his present business. He is 
wide-awake and enterprising and one of the fore- 
most men of the county. 

His marri.age was blessed by the birth of seven 
children, viz: Mary A., born April 24, 1875, at 
South Bend, Ind.; .lolin .loseph, born in South Bend, 
Ind., on the 21st of March, 1876; Florence, born in 
Poweshiek County, Iowa, Marclk- 4, 1879; Charles, 
born in the same county, December 27, 1882; 
James, born in that county in 1885; Lewis, born in 



the same county, November 27, 1887; and Rosetta, 
born in Louisville, Ohio, on the 22d of June, 1891. 
The subject of this sketch is a member of the Holy 
Catholic Church and was confirmed at the .age of 
seventeen. His two eldest children have also been 
confirmed. Mr. Dwyer is a member of the Cath- 
olic Mutual Benefit Association, and he is also a 
member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. 



-^^ 



^( OHN REED POYSER, one of Canton's suc- 
cessful business men and a representative of 
an honored pioneer family of Stark County, 
' w.as born on a farm in Sugar Creek Town- 
ship, December 9, 1825. His paternal grandfather, 
Joseph Pojser, was a native of Pennsylvania, but 
was of French, Irish and German extraction. The 
Poyser famil}' is of French origin, and on the ma- 
ternal side oursubjectis of Irish descent, his grand- 
mother being a nativeof the Emerald Isle. Joseph 
Po.yser, Sr., settled in Stark County, Ohio, in 1809, 
becoming one of its early pioneers. Indians were 
still quite numerous in the neighborhood at tliat 
time, and the work of civilization seemed scarcely 
begun. 

Joseph Poyser, Jr., who was born in Fayette 
County, Pa., in 1798, came to this county with 
his father. Under the parental roof he at- 
tained to manhood, and afterward married Miss 
Mattie Reed, of Sugar Creek Township, daugh- 
ter of Jacob Reed, who with his family came 
to Stark County in 1811, from Fayette County, 
Pa. After his marriage, Joseph Poyser set- 
tled in Sugar Creek Township, where he cleared 
and developed a farm, enduring all the hard- 
ships and privations incident to pioneer life. 
There he remained until 1833, when he removed 
to Canton Township, but after a few years he re- 
turned to Sugar Creek Township. He carried on 
general farming and stock-raising throughout his 
entire life. His death occurred March 20, 1877, 
in his eightieth year. His wife died November 20, 
1878, when seventy-eight years of age. She was 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



133 



a devoted member of the Lutheran Church, and 
Mr. Po3-ser held membership with the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. In politics, he was a Whig. 
They were the pn rents of four sons and nine daugh- 
ters, eleven of whom grew to mature years, were 
married and had families, and seven are still living 
at this writing. 

Our subject is the eldest son and third child in 
the family. In the usual manner of farmer lads 
the days of his boj-hood and youth were passed, 
and when twenty years of age, he came to Canton 
to learn the carpenter's trade, serving a three- 
years apprenticeship with John B. Hoover. He 
afterward entered the employ' of Peter Myers, a 
skilled mechanic and a well-known contractor, 
with whom lie remained until 1853. He then be- 
gan building and contracting on his own account, 
and formed a partnership with Jamos Campbell in 
1867. He has erected many of the principal build- 
ings in the county, including the .Stark County 
Court House, the County Jail, two of the leading 
churches of Canton, the Buckeye Works, the former 
works of Elbell <fe Gilliam, the Malleable Iron 
Works, and manj- of the principal stores of Canton. 
He is now superintending the erection of the United 
States Postofflce building at Canton. 

On the 28th of October, 1852, Mr. Poyser wedded 
Miss Mary Mellen, daughter of Patrick Mellen, of 
this cit}'. She is a native of New Jersey, and when 
a child came to Stark County with her parents. 
Four children were born of this union, two of 
whom are yet living: William J., Sccretar}^ of the 
Bucher ife Gibbs Plow Company, and J. Ella, at 
home. The famil3' have a pleasant and commodi- 
ous residence at No. 132 South Cleveland Avenue. 
The}- have many friends in the conimunit\' and 
rank high in social circles. In politics, Mr. Poyser 
is a stalwart Republican, and has served two terms 
as a member of the City Council. In connection 
with his other business interests, he and his son 
carried on a lumber yaid and were among the 
principal lumber dealers of Canton from 1881 un- 
til I8;M, when he sold out. He is now the largest 
stockholder, with one exception, in the Bucher & 
Gibbs Plow Company. CJuictly reared as a farmer 
boy, he determined, however, to engage in some 
Other pursuit than that of agriculture, and that 



his choice of a business was a wise one has been 
fully proved by the excellent success which has 
crowned his efforts. He is now one of Canton's 
leading business men. He has been the architect 
of his own fortune and has built wisel}- and well. 



ON. ROBERT BELL, ex-Mine Inspector, 
Massillon, Ohio. England numbers many 
representatives among the best class of cit- 
izens of Ohio. There is a sterling quality 
about the nationality that fits them for almost any 
occupation, and we, as Americans, are greatly in- 
debted to settlers of English birth for the rapid 
advancement made in our civih'zation. He whose 
name is at the head of this sketch, and who is one 
of the representative men of Massillon, was born 
in Everton, a suburb of Liverpool, on the 2d of 
January, 1832. His father, Robinson Bell, was 
born in Cumberland, England, and was a cabinet- 
maker and-joiner by trade, following the same in 
Liverpool until his death. The latter's wife, whose 
maiden name was Martha Maxwell, was also a na- 
tive of Liverpool, England. Her father, John Max- 
well, was a ship-carpenter and boat-builder. He 
was of Scotch descent, and a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. Mr. Bell was a member of the 
Church of England. 

Robert Bell was the youngest of four children, 
three of whom reached mature years, but on 1}' one 
of whom beside our subject is now living, John 
Bell, who is a saddler by trade, and who is in Aus- 
tralia. Another son, William, was drowned in the 
river at (Juebec. Our subject w.as left an orphan at 
five years, and went to Cumberland, where he made 
his home with some of his father's folks. Ho had 
no educational advantages but what he recci\cd 
at Sunday-school, and ho is a self-made man in 
every sense of that term. When nine years of age, 
he began working in the coal mines at Whitehaven, 
and received sixpence a d.ay for his services. He 
gradually rose to be driver, then miner, and was thus 



134 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



en<<aged until 1867. At that date, he determined 
to emigrate to America, and took passage at Liver- 
pool, England, on the steamer "England," and set 
foot upon United States soil eighteen days later. 

Previous to coining to this continent, or in 1857, 
he married Miss Catherine Norman, a native of 
Merryport, I^ngland, born in 1828, and the daugh- 
ter of Peter Norman, whose birth occurred in Cum- 
berland, where he was engaged in farming. He 
died when Mrs. Bell was quite young. His wife's 
maiden name was Nancy Tear, and she was 
born on the Isle of Man. Her father's name was 
Nicholas Tear, and he was a farmer. After reach- 
ing the Land of the F'ree, our subject settled in 
Camliridge, Guernsey County, Ohio, where lie was 
employed in the mines a short time. He subse- 
quently found out that he could make better wages 
at Plymouth, Pa., and he removed there a few 
months later. From there he moved to AVestern 
Pennsylvania, and while there his wife and four 
children joined him. In the year 1871, thej' 
came to Mineral Ridge, Trumbull County, Ohio, 
and Mr. Bell mined both coal and iron until 1876, 
when he moved witli his family to Stark County, 
Ohio. He was employed in the Old Pigeon Run 
Mines for about three years, after which,or in 1880, 
he purchased his present propert}'. He located here 
in March, and started a grocery and provision store, 
which he carried on successfully until some time 
after he was appointed Mine Inspector. Mrs. Bell 
carried on the store for about eighteen months, and 
tlien closed out. In June, 1886, Mr. Bell was 
appointed to fill the unexpired term of Mr. A. 
King, Mine Inspector, by Gov. Foraker, filled that 
position for eleven months, and was then reap- 
pointed by the same (Governor in 1887, for three 
3'ears. In 1888, the law was changed and it threw 
out all the inspectors, but Mr. Bell was reappointed 
for three years. He served until August II, 1890, 
when he resigned his position and retired. He was 
Inspector for eight counties, Stark, Wayne, Sum- 
mit, Portage, Trumbull, Mahoning, Medina and 
Columbiana. It took all his spare time to watch 
the mines, and he was a most efficient and capable 
man for that position. 

Mr. Bell is the owner of two fine residences in 
Massillon, and a pleasant home on Warwick Street. 



His marriage was blessed by the birth of four 
children: Margaret A. married a Mr. Watkins, 
and resides in Chapman. Robinson worked in the 
mines until nineteen jears of age, and then en- 
tered tlie Western Reserve College, from which he 
was graduated with the degree of M. D. He has a 
large practice in Cleveland, and is now Coroner of 
Cuyahoga County. John is a boiler-maker for 
Russell it Co., and William died vvhen one year and 
three months old, shortly after coming to this 
countr}'. Mr. Bell was a member of the City Coun- 
cil from the Second Ward for two years, and for 
three years was a member of the Cit^' Board of 
Equalization. He is a Republican in politics, and 
was a candidate for the nomination of Representa- 
tive. He is past officer of the Sons of St. George, 
an exclusively English society. He is a Knight 
Templar in the Masonic fraternity, as are also his 
two sons. Mrs. Bell is a member of the Episcopal 
Church. 



lows HAMMER is a self-made man and 
prominent citizen of Canal Fulton. His 
life record is as follows: A native of Ger- 
many, he was born in Bavaria, September 
27, 1834, and is the only son of Dominick and 
Catherine (Mallone) Hammer, who were also na- 
tives of Bavaria. The famil}^ contained but one 
other child, a daughter. In 1840, the father emi- 
grated to America with his wife and children, and 
on reaching this country came direct to Stark 
County', Ohio. He made a location in Lawrence 
Township, about two miles east of Canal Fulton, 
and there resided until his death, which occurred 
at the age of fortj'-five years. His wife survived 
him some time and died in her seventy-ninth year. 
Our subject has resided in Stark County since he 
was a lad of six summers. His education was begun 
in the district schools of Lawrence Township. His 
father died when lie was onlj' thirteen years of age, 
and being the only son, the care of the farm de- 
volved upon his young shoulders. He early dis- 



POETRATT AND BIOGEAPHICAL RECORD. 



135 



played excellent business ability, and with the aid 
of his mother admirably managed affairs. After 
attaining to mature years, he secured as a compan- 
ion and helpmate on life's journej' Miss Mary 
Dunn, daughter of George and Catherine Dunn. 
She was born in Zanesville, Ohio. February 7,1844, 
and their union was celebrated April 3, 1864. 

After his marriage, Mr. Hammer sold the old 
homestead and purchased the farm upon which he 
resided for eight years. He gave some attention 
to general fanning, but made a specialty of stock- 
dealing. On selling his second farm, he bought 
another tract of land in the same township, resid- 
ing thereon until 1873. when he sold out and came 
to Canal Fulton. Purchasing a farm of Mike 
Ruck, adjoining the cit^- limits, he has since en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits and in buying and 
selling stock. In connection with this, he has 
aided greatly in the improvement of Canal Fulton 
by his extensive building operations. Since 1876, 
he has probably erected more buildings in that 
place than any other of its citizens. He also 
erected his fine two-stor^' brick residence, his pres- 
ent home, and is the owner of some town lots in 
Wichita, Kan. 

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hammer have been born nine 
children, five of whom are yet living: E. J., who 
was born February 13, 1872, was graduated from 
the High School of Canal Fulton and from the 
Business College of Cleveland, and is book-keeper 
in the Tool Works of this city. The younger chil- 
dren are William H., born in 1874; Martha E., July 
27, 1877; Felix S., in 1879, and Purcell L., 
July 26, 1887. Those deceased were Catherine A., 
who died January 20, 1871; Marv A., who died 
on the same day; William A., whose death oc- 
curred on the 24lh of January, 1871, and Mary A., 
who died August 26, 1882. 

Mr. Hammer is still the owner of his valuable 
farm of seventv acres adjacent to Canal Fulton, 
where he has made his home since 1873. He has 
devoted his attention chiefly to stock-dealing, and 
as the result of his industry, good management 
and business ability, he has accumulated a hand- 
some competence, his career being pre-eminently a 
successful one. He votes with the Democratic 
party on questions of national importance, but at 



local elections suppports the man whom he thinks 
best qualified for the office, regardless of party 
affiliations. He served as Alderman of Canal Ful- 
ton for four years and proved an able officer. 
Himself and wife are members of the Catholic 
Church. Dependent upon his own resources from 
early boyhood, he has steadil}' worked his way 
upward to a position of affluence, and is numbered 
anions the influential citizens of Canal Fulton. 



,■ * n-s 
■ • °-z 



^^ 



trict Attorney for the Northern Distiict 
'^ \V, of Ohio, and ex-Prosecuting Attorney of 
^^^i Stark County, is a native of New Jersey. 
Washington, Warren County, was the place of his 
birth, which occurred on the 28th of September, 
1845. He is a son of William and Anna (Hance) 
Shields. After a preparatory course of study in 
the seminary at AUentown, Pa., he became a stu- 
dent in Union College, of Schenectady, N. Y., and 
was graduated from tiiat institution in 1867. 

Selecting the legal profession as a life work, Mr. 
Shields entered the law office of E. W. Stoughtou, 
in New York City, under whose direction he pros- 
ecuted his studies for about eighteen months. At 
the expiration of that time, he removed to Ohio 
and completed his legal course of training in the 
office of his uncle. Judge Joseph Hance, of New 
Philadelphia, after which he was admitted to the 
Bar in Cadiz, C)liio, in 1870. He was now prepared 
to enter upon practice, and, making a location in 
Canton, he here opened an office and has success- 
fully followed his profession for more than tvventj' 
years. 

In December, 1871, Mr. Shields was united in 
marriage with Miss Clara A. Wikidal, born Sep- 
tember 28, 1845, daughter of Martin Wikidal, an 
old and successful merchant of Canton and one of 
its most prominent citizens. 

In the spring of the same 3'ear, our subject was 
honored by an election to the office of Mayor of 
Canton, being chosen to occupy the position for 



136 



PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



four yeare. He was elected on the Democratic 
ticket and of that party is a stanch advocate. He 
faithfiill}- and promptly performed his duties and 
won the commendation of all concerned. In Oc- 
tober, 1875, he was nominated and elected iis Pros- 
ecuting Attorney for Stark County for a term of 
two j'eai-s and entered upon the duties of that 
ollice January 1, 1876, and was again elected for 
two years thereafter to the same office. In 188.5, he 
was appointed United States District Attorney for 
the Northern District of Ohio bj' President Cleve- 
land. 

Mr. Shields is a modest, unassuming man, but 
though not disposed to talk much of himself, his 
friends speak of him in high terms. He has won 
for himself an enviable place at the Stark Country 
Bar and is recognized as a prominent lawyer, well 
versed in his profession and a successful legal 
practitioner. 



PR. JAMES E. DOUGHERTY, of Canton, is a 
/ native of the Keystone State. He was born 
in Beaver County, March 13, 1820, and is 
the eldest child and only son in a faniih* of four 
children, whose parents were John and Elizabeth 
(Crail) Dougherty, both natives of Pennsylvania. 
The father was born in Franklin County, Decem- 
ber 3, 1796. The mother was born on the 25 th of 
June, 1801, and was a daughter of John Crail, 
Esq., a Revolutionary soldier. James Dougherty, 
the grandfather of our subject, was a native of 
Ireland, the Crail ancestors coming from the Isle of 
Man. The mother of our subject died in her 
twenty-sixth year, and the father passed away in 
Richmond. Ohio, March 20, 1831. 

James E. Dougherty, whose name heads this 
record, attended the common schools of Jefferson 
Count\-, Ohio, and afterward was a student in the 
classical institute of Richmond, where he spent 
two years and a half. He then engaged in teach- 
ing at intervals, and also took up the study of medi- 
cine with Dr. E. M. Pyle,of Richmond, after which 



he attended the Cleveland Medical College. The 
succeeding five 3-ears of his life were passed in 
Beaver County, Pa., after which he located in Jef- 
ferson County, Ohio. . In 1849, he took up his res- 
idence in Greentown, Stark County, where he con- 
tinued in the active practice of medicine for thirty- 
six years. In the prosecution of his chosen pro- 
fession he was quite successful, his skill and ability 
winning liim a large and lucrative practice and 
gaining for him a wide reputation. 

The Doctor has been twice married. He first 
wedded Miss Pho-be L.Thompson, of Carroll Coun- 
ty, Ohio, daughter of William R.Thompson. Their 
union was celebrated April 11, 1844. At her 
death she left one son, William T., who is now 
connected with the iron business in Newcastle, Pa. 
On the 27th of September, 1849. Dr. Dougherty 
wedded Miss Angeline. daughter of Tliomas Gorgus 
of Greentown, Ohio, and a native of Lancaster, 
County, Pa, By this marriage, eight children have 
been born, four sons and four daughters, of whom 
three sons and one daughter are yet living. Charles 
A, is a graduate of a dental college; Louis was grad- 
uated from the Cleveland Medical College, and is 
engaged in practice in Greentown; James E., who 
was a teacher for some years, died in 1888; John 
F. graduated from the dental college of Philadel- 
phia; Mary E. is Deputy Recorder of Stark County ; 
Sarah A. became the wife of Martin A. Mattice 
and died in 1891; Maggie died at the age of 
seven years; and one daughter died in infancy. 

Duriug the late war. Dr. Dougherty enlisted in 
May, 1864, and became Lieutenant-Colonel of the 
One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio National 
Guards, which were called out for one hundred 
days' service and sent to Covington, Ky., doing 
garrison duty at that place most of the time. In 
politics, he has been a stalwart Republican since 
the organization of the part}', and h.as been hon- 
ored with several official positions. In 1885, he 
was elected County Recorder and came to Canton 
in December, to take charge of the office for 
a term of three years. He won the election by a 
majority of sixteen, and so faithfully did he per- 
form his duties that he was re-nominated in 1888, 
and at the second election won the victory bj' a 
majority of six hundred and seventy-one, run- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



137 



ning one thousand ahead of his ticket. Since 
retiring from the Recorder's office, he has spent 
the most of his time looking after his general 
business and practically lives a retired life. 

Socially, the Doctor is a member of Canton 
Lodge No. 60, A. F. & A. M.; Canton Chapter No. 
84, R. A. M., serving two years as High Priest; 
Hadassah Lodge No. 350, I. O. O. F., of Green- 
town, and Canton Post No. 25, G. A. R. He was 
Secretary of the Lake Township Mutual Fire In- 
surance Company from 1877 until 1885, when he 
resigned the position. Himself and wife are con- 
sistent members and active workers in the Method- 
ist Episcopal Church, and he is one of the teachers 
in the Sunday-school. Their home is situated at No. 
118 South Cleveland Avenue, and is a large frame 
residence built in modern style and finished and 
furnished very tastefully. The Doctor has long 
been identified with the history of Stark County, 
and whether in public or in private business, his 
life has been upright and honorable, winning him 
the confidence and esteem of all with whom he has 
come in contact. 



^i; 



ylLLIAM AV. STANSBURY. who is over 
eighty years of age, is one of the oldest 
living pioneers of Stark County and is one 
of those who, by steady industry, wise management 
and just dealing, have secured to themselves an hon- 
orable reputation and a fair share of this world's 
goods. He is at [)resent residing on a good estate 
in Tuscarawas Township, and although when he 
began the battle of life as an agriculturist he had 
not much money, he now owns one hundred and 
ten acres of well-improved land, together with a 
number of domestic animals and all the farming 
conveniences which properly accompany a good 
estate. 

A native of Maiyland, our subject was born 
April 20, 1807, and is the son of Elijah and Eliza- 
beth (Ake) Stansbury, who, it is thought, were 
also natives of Marvland. His ancestore on the 



paternal side were of English descent, while his 
mother was descended from German stock. William 
"VV. of this sketch had been a resident of his native 
State four years when he was brought by his parents 
to Ohio, they locating for a time in .Jefferson County 
where they were classed among the old and re- 
spected pioneers. His fatlier died a few years after 
coming hither, but his mother lived to attain the 
advanced age of ninety-six years and departed this 
life at the home of our subject. 

He whose name introduces this sketch acquired 
his education in a temple of learning which had 
but one window, and which was furnished in a most 
primitive fashion. However, he was able to ac- 
quire a practical knowledge, and when old enough 
to start out in life on his own responsibilit}-, learned 
the trades of painting and chair-making, which oc- 
cupations he followed for several years with signal 
success. The lady to whom he was married May 
8, 1828, was Miss Elizabeth Armstrong; she was 
born in Lancaster County, Pa., August 5, 1811, 
.and was the daughter of John and Elizabeth 
(McKinle}-) Armstrong, the foimer of whom was 
a native of Ireland and emigrated to America 
when a young man of nineteen years. Her mother, 
however, was bora in Harrisburg, Pa. Benja- 
min Armstrong, the paternal uncle of Mrs. Stans- 
bury, was a soldier in the War of 1812, in which 
struggle he lost a limb. 

Mrs. Stansbury was three or four years of age 
when brought by her parents to Jefferson County, 
this State, where she was given a good education 
and met and married our subject. Their union 
has been blessed by the birth of a famil}' of eleven 
children, of whom nine are living, namely: John, 
Josiali, Joshua, Jacob W., Tishe, Joseph, Absalom; 
Alice, Mrs. Keuijen J. Birehfield; and Mahala, the 
wife of Daniel J. Wilhelm. In 1828, our subject 
came with his family to Stark County and settled 
in a rude log cabin in the woods of Tuscarawas 
Township, and since that time has noted carefully 
the many wonderful changes that have taken place 
in this region. He has had a hand in bringing 
about this great transformation from a wilderness 
to a finely developed farming country, and owns a 
good farm, which is exceedingly well cultivated 
and improved. When he came here, the surround- 



138 



PORTRAIT AXD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ing country was wild and sparsely settled and 
many wild animals, especially wolves and deer, 
roamed where now we see fine farms and thriving 
villages. Mr. Stansbury h.is a keen remembrance 
of those davs and has a large store of pioneer inci- 
dents and lore, and talks very interestingly con- 
cerning the manner of living of the early settlers. 
Our subject has an intelligent conception of his 
duties of a citizen and has held various local offices 
with credit, among which was that of Township 
Trustee. He alBliates with the Republican party 
in politics and among his fellow-citizens bears the 
reputation of an industrious and honest man, one 
who in his domestic relations is affectionate and 
considerate. He and his good wife have just cele- 
brated their sixty-fourth anniversary of married life 
and are now living in the enjoyment of the fruits 
of early ye.ars of toil and economy. They are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church and are 
widely and favorably known throughout the 
count v. 



||-^ L.McILRAVY.M.D. The medical prof es- 
J|, sion is represented in this county by a num- 
ber of men of widely extended knowledge 
of the principles of therapeutics, skill in 
their use and practical application, and a reputa- 
tion for succ-ess in theu- chosen field of labor. 
Prominent among this class is Dr. Mc llravy, who 
is residing in Magnolia, and was born in this county 
September 25, 1851. He is a son of Dr. William 
Q. Mc llravy, a native of Pennsylvania, the year 
of his birth being 1823. Gi-andfather Hugh Mc- 
Ilravy was born in Scotland, and came to America 
when a yoimg m.an. He was a stone-mason by 
trade, and upon coming to this country located in 
Harrison County, this State, where he lived for a 
time, .ind then removed to Victoria, Knox County, 
111., where he spent his last days. 

The father of our subject, who was a physician 
of the regular school, was engaged in practice as 
early as 1848 in Magnolia, where he at once began 
to build up a trade that grew with the growth in 



population, and ere long gave him plenty of work. 
He was only allowed to continue his l.ibors for ten 
years, and died in 1858. He was very successful 
as a physician, and was ranked among the best in 
this county. He was a Republican in politics, and 
although a very busy man. always found time to 
devote to local affairs and was well liked by his 
fellow-townsmen. 

The maiden name of our subjeefs mother was 
Rebecca Tan Buskirk. and she was a native of Penn- 
sylvania. .She reared a family of two children, the 
sister of D. L. being Carrie B.. whe married W. S. Tid- 
rich, and resides in Des Moines, Iowa. They have 
one son. Glen. Mrs. Mc llravy was a member of 
the Methodist Church and always active in all 
good works. She was sixty-five years of age when 
called hence. Our subject remained in his native 
county until six years of .age. when he was taken 
to New Cuml>erland. Tuscarawas County, where he 
was given an excellent education, and later sup- 
plemented the knowledge gained there by a two- 
years course at Scio College. He then taught 
school for five years, in the meantime carrying on 
his studies and reading medicine with Dr. E. P. 
Bnell. of New Philadelphia. Later, he attended a 
course of lectures at the Ohio Medii-al College in 
Cincinnati, and in 1879 entered the University of 
the City of New York, from which institution he 
was graduated in the spring of 1880. During that 
vear he took a sv»ecial course in surgery, chemistry, 
and anatomy, and on receiving his diploma re- 
turned to Magnolia, where he established himself in 
the practice of his profession. 

Dr. Mc llravy in May. 1881. was married to 
Miss Cora R Sherretts. who wasN.>min New Cum- 
berland, this State. .Isnuary 3, 1861. They have 
one child, a daughter. Maude. The Doctor stands 
verv high in the medical fraternity, and has been 
very successful in alleviating suffering and pro- 
long-ing life, and has received the merited reward 
of a fair share of this worlds goods. This he has 
invested in such a way as to prove his financial tact, 
and the result is that he has a handsome income. 
He is the owner of a quarter-set-lion of valuable 
land in Boone County. Iowa, which he rents to a 
good tenant. In politics, he is a behever in the 
principles advocated by the Republican i«rty. and 



POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



141 



sociallj- he is a member of the Stark County Acad- 
emy of Medicine. He occupies a comfortable res- 
idence, which is fitted up in a style suited to the 
means and tastes of its inmates. As has been seen 
by these brief notes, Dr. Mellravy has made his 
own way in life and is therefore more worthy of 
commendation. 



^ijit 



\||OHN R. BUCHER was one of the most 
prominent citizens and a leading manu- 
facturer of Canton, and this work would 
indeed be incomplete without a sketch of 
his career. When called from this life, the county 
mourned the loss of one of its best citizens, and 
his friends and family felt that disaster had indeed 
fallen heavily upon tiiem. He was born August 
29, 1827, in a residence that stood at thecornerof 
East Tuscarawas and Cherry Streets, and was a son 
of Jacob Bucher, a pioneer of Canton. After at- 
taining to man's estate, he was married, September 
11, 1856, to Miss Emma, daughter of Martin Wiki- 
dal, also an early settler of Canton. 

One of the leading industries with which he was 
connected was the Bucher <fe Gibbs' Plow Com- 
pany, which he established in 1864. He began the 
manufacture of stoves prior to that and proved 
successful. About that time, he added the manu- 
facture of plows to his other interests, and 
completely consecrated himself to his work. It 
took earnest and constant effort to make the 
young enterprise succeed, and twenty years of 
persistent labor were required to place the com- 
pany upon the high and enduring basis which it 
now occupies. The business w.as conducted under 
the partnership name until 1886, when it was in- 
corporated with a capital stock of $2.50,000. The 
plant is located near the tracks of the Pittsburgh, 
Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroad and the Cleve- 
land & Canton Railroad. The factory is 50x226 
feet, two stories high, and the foundry covers an 
area of 75x150 feet. The smithj' department is 



40x125 feet, and the grinding-room, storage and 
warehouse is a building 25x125 feet, and two 
stories high, with two wings, each 25x125 feet; 
another storage building is 40x80 feet, and the 
office is 35x75 feet, and two stories high. The 
miichinery is of the latest and most highly im- 
proved kind and is operated by a steam engine of 
two hundred and fifty horse power. They em- 
ploy one hundred and fifty men in the factories, 
and have twelve traveling salesmen upon the road. 
The goods are sold throughout the United States, 
Australia, the Argentine Republic, Chili, Mex- 
ico, and in portions of Africa. Branch offices 
have been established in Indianapolis, St. Louis, 
Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, 
Harrisburg, Baltimore, Richmond, New York, 
Cincinnati and Louisville. At the time of his 
death, Mr. Bucher was President of the companj-, 
and the other officers were F. E. Myers, Vice- 
president; H. A. Cavnah, General Manager; W. J. 
Poyser, Secretary; F. B. Niesz, Treasurer, and G. 
W. Ream, Superintendent. 

Mr. Bucher was a hard worker in his earlier life, 
but with advancing years he laid aside some of his 
business cares, as his earlier efforts had brought him 
prosperity. For a number of years he had also 
been in poor health. He was a sufferer from heart 
disease, but he bore all uncomplainingly, con- 
stantly desiring to avoid causing anxiety toothers. 
Several times he seemed near death's door, but re- 
covered. At last, however, the man who had suc- 
cessfully combated with hardships, and many ob- 
stacles in the financial world, succumbed to the 
dread destroyer. He passed away Februarj^ 29, 
1892. For years he was an attendant and sup- 
porter of the Lutheran Church. 

Mr. Bucher was deeply and sincerely mourned. 
His generous nature endeared him to his employes, 
who felt for him the tenderest regard. Those who 
were .associated with him in business speak of him 
in the highest terms of praise, and had the utmost 
confidence in him. His aim in life was ever to 
uplift and benefit, and his record abounds with 
good deeds, whicli won him the love of young and 
old, rich and poor. His excellencies of character 
were many "and even his failings leaned to vir- 
tue's side." As a prudent man of affairs, he was a 



142 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



model of rare excellence. As a successful captain 
of the industrial development, his place was in the 
front rank. As a social companion, he was peer- 
less; as a citizen, he was without reproach. As a 
husband and father, he was tlie tj-pe and embodi- 
ment of whatever is the truest and kindest and 
best in human conception. His home was the 
dearest spot on earth to him, and he could not do 
too much to enhance the happiness of his family. 

Mrs. Bueher is left to mourn the loss of a de- 
voted husband, while three children, Helen, wife 
of W. J. Poyser; Martin W., and Clara, wife of 
W. H. Shanafelt, share her deep bereavement. 

AVe are pleased to present a portrait of Mr. 
Bueher on another page of this volume. 



'^^" 



ARTIN W. BUCHER, one of the stock- 
holders in the Bueher & Gibbs' Plow Com- 
pany of Canton, was born in this city on 
the 30th of August, 1864, and is the only 
son of John R. and Emma (Wikidal) Bueher. 
Under the parental roof the days of his boj'hood 
and youth were passed, and excellent educational 
advantages were afforded him. On leaving the 
public schools, he entered Dennison University in 
(iranville, Ohio, where he vigorousl}' pursued his 
studies for a year, after which he went to Media, 
Pa., where he spent two years. He then entered 
upon his business career, embarking, in 1885, in the 
tea business with the Great Eastern Tea Company, 
after which he formed a partnership with Henry 
Ream, rejiresenting the Great P^astern Hong Kong 
Tea Company. 

On the 2d of September, 1885, Mr. Bueher was 
married to Miss Kate Cobaugh, of Canton, who is 
a daughter of Daniel Cobaugh, President of the 
Canton Spring Company. The young couple re- 
side at No. 158 Aultman Avenue, and their home 
is the abode of hospitality^, and there they enter- 
tain their many friends in this community, as in 
social circles they rank high. They have one son, 
John R. 



After two years' connection with the Great 
Eastern Hong Kong Tea Company, Mr. Bueher sold 
Iiis interest in the business, and rented the Sani- 
tarium at Magnetic Springs, in Union County, 
Ohio, and was its proprietor for one year. He 
then returned to his native city, and became in- 
terested in the Bueher & Gibbs' Plow Conii)any, 
and now has control of the advertising department. 
This is one of the leading industries of the city, 
and was established by his father almost thirt3- 
years ago. 

Our subject is a wide-awake and enterprising 
young business man, progressive and public-spir- 
ited. He possesses many of the chanicteristics of his 
honored father, and will no doubt rapidly win his 
way upward. With the advantages with which he 
is surrounded he may achieve excellent success, 
and the ambition and energy of a \'oung man will, 
no doubt, gain prosperity for him. 



1|W_^,^^ENRY BACHTEL, a prominent old settler 
[fjr of Stark County, Ohio, was born in Bed- 
i«y^^ ford County (now Fulton Count3'), Pa., 
(^ December 18, 1805, a son of Jacob Bach- 
tel, who was born in Washington County, Md., 
in the year 1770, and grandson of Samuel Bach- 
tel, who was born in the eastern part of the State 
of Pennsylvania, where he owned and operated 
an oil mill and distillery, both of which were 
situated on a farm which he owned. He was a 
minister of the Gospel and wielded much influ- 
ence throughout the section in which he resided. 
His father, Martin Baehtel, was born i.. Switzer- 
land, and it is supposed that he came to America 
and settled in Pennsylvania in 1734. He became 
wealthy and was the owner of a fine farm and 
mill. 

Jacob Baehtel, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, married Catlierine Kershner, who was born 
and reared in AVashington County, Md. Tradition 
has it that her father, Martin Kershner, came to this 
country' from France. Jacob Baehtel and Gather- 



PORTRAIT AND ISIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



143 



ine Kershner were married in Maryland, but after- 
ward settled in what is now Fulton County, Pa., 
where they tilled the soil until 1810, when they 
came to Stark County, Ohio, and purchased eighty 
acres of land of George Harter, four miles north 
of Canton. Altliough this land was partially im- 
proved, Mr. Bachtel set enei-getically to work to 
further perfect it, but when just in the meridian 
of life he was cut down by the hand of death, on 
the 22d of December, 1823, his widow surviving 
him until September 12, 1833. They became the 
parents of two daughters and four sons, all of 
whom reached maturity, married and reared fam- 
ilies. Samuel died October 4, 1850, at the age of 
fifty-five years, three months and twenty-six d'lys; 
Nancy Richards, April 6, 1878, aged eighty years, 
eight months and twenty-eight days; Isaac, June 
4, 1866, aged sixty-six years, ten months and 
twenty-four daj-s; Andrew K. died March 15, 
1874, aged seventy years; Henry, the subject of 
this sketch, is the only one living; and Polly 
Beard died November 25, 1840, aged thirty-three 
3'ears, ten months and twenty-two days. 

Henr^' Bachtel was five years of age when he 
was brought to Stark County, and in the 
primitive log schoolhousc of earl}' times his edu- 
cation was acquired. Subscription schools were 
in vogue in that day, and were of the most 
primitive description. At the age of seventeen 
years, he went to Plain Township, Stark County, 
to learn the cabinet-maker's trade, but at the end 
of about twent}' months he went to Steubenville, 
where he worked as an apprentice for six months 
longer. For two years after his return to Stark 
County, he worked at his trade. In 1826, he was 
married to Miss Margaret Upp, a native of Penn- 
sylvania, born in York County July 6, 1806, but 
was called upon to mourn her death February 1, 
1861. Their union resulted in the birth of four 
children, one of whom died in infancy. Those 
living are Catherine M., born December 8, 1828, 
and the wife of John W. McAbee, of Mt. Union, 
Ohio; Samuel P., born July 8, 1832, resides on the 
old homestead; and Hiram J., born August 2, 
1834, lives in Flint, Mich. 

Mr. Bachtel's second union was to Martha E. 
(Hibben) PIverhard, the widow of Jacob Ever- 



hard. She died July 17, 1887. After his mar- 
riage, Mr. Bachtel located on a farm of one 
hundred and sixty acres on section 8, where he 
remained until 1830, when he moved to where he 
now resides. This farm was first opened by Fred- 
erick Warner in 1814, and in 1816 was pur- 
chased by Henry Huffman, and in 1830 by Mr. 
Bachtel, who turned it over to the management of 
his son Samuel in 1880. The large brick residence, 
which is still standing, was erected m 1833, and 
was the fourth brick house in the county. On his 
fine farm of two hundred and forty acres he 
raised magnificent crops and a large amount of 
stock. 

Mr. Bachtel was first a Whig in politics, then 
became a Republican, and is now a Prohibitionist. 
He was Township Trustee two terms of three 
years each, was Township Assessor two years, 
Township Clerk twelve years and Justice of the 
Peace twenty-one }'ears. During this time, so ably 
did he weigh the scales of justice that but one of 
his cases was ever taken to court. He is a mem- 
ber of the Reformed Church of Jackson Township, 
and has held all the offices in the same. He is a 
man of unblemished reputation, and in every walk 
in life has conducted himself with intelligence, 
dignity and probity. 



OHN W. BARR was a farmer of much 
practical abilit}-, who had already accjuired 
a handsome ]iroperty in Bethlehem Town- 
ship when his untimely death closed his 
earthly career. By his demise, the township which 
he helped to build up and Stark County sustained 
the loss of one who had aided in developing the 
agriculture of this portion of the State. Like 
many of the best residents of this section, he was 
a native of this county, having been born in April, 
1824, to Henry and Susan (Bi.xler) Barr, who earl}- 
located in Sugar Creek Township. There our sub- 
ject was reared to man's estale and as educational 
privileges were very meagre, his opportunities for 



144 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



acquiring Ivnowledge were limitcil to the district 
school. 

Wlieii reaching mature 3'ears, he of whom we 
write learned the trade of a carpenter and joiner, 
which business he followed the greater part of his 
life. April 25, 1858, he was joined in marriage 
with Miss Hester A. Barnett, who was horn in 
this Stite, April 25, 1837, and is the daughter of 
Jacob and Elizabeth (Griffith) Barnett, natives 
of Pennsylvania. Of the six children living in 
her parents' family, she was the third in order of 
birth, her brothers and sisters bearing the respec- 
tive names of Susan, Gabriel, Caroline, David and 
Ella. 

Mr. Barr of this sketch in 1859 located upon the 
farm where his widow is at present residing, in 
Bethlehem Township, and where his decease oc- 
curred .Tuly 9, 1886. The excellent estate of one 
hundred and fifty acres which he possessed at the 
time of his death is a standing monument to his 
energ}-, industry and pi-udence in agricultural and 
business affairs. He surrounded his home with 
many comforts, occupied wcll-lniilt structures, and 
ever}- part of his farm gave evidence of his ability 
and prosperitv. 

A Republican in politics, our subject always 
voted with that party, fully convinced of the 
justice of the principles which he advocated. With 
his wife, he was identified with the German Re- 
formed Church and bore his religion as an every- 
day garment, ordering his life by the Golden Rule. 
Of the six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Barr, Wve 
are living, namely: Samantha, Mrs. William Schwe- 
year; Charles F., Franklin, Harvey D. and George 
A. They have been given excellent advantages 
and are taking their places in society among the 
young people of intelligence and refinement. 






WILLIAM W. GOODMAN, a prominent 
builder and contractor of Canton, was born 
in Re.-iding, Pa., December 10, 1844. His 
parents, John S. and Mary (Whitman) Goodman, 
were natives of the Keystone State, whence thej' 



removed to Ohio in 1845, settling in Stark County 
on a small farm. Subsequently, they retired to 
spend their declining j-ears in the cit}' of Canton, 
where the mother died in 1865 and the father in 
April, 1875. After the death of his first wife, the 
father married Elizabeth Emmons, by whom he had 
one son, Louis, still living. The last-named was a 
shoemaker, and followed his trade until his death. 
Upright and conscientious in his dealings with all, 
he w.as highly esteemed and occupied an influential 
place in the community. 

Of the large family of children born to John and 
Mary Goodman, only four survive at this writing 
(1892). William AV. was very young when he was 
brought by his parents to Stark County, where he 
grew to manhood on his father's farm. His educa- 
tion, which was limited, was received in the common 
schools of his district, but he has always been a 
close observer of public affairs and a sj-stematic 
reader of current literature, so that he is well in- 
formed on all matters of public import. 

At the age of eighteen, Mr. Goodman was ap- 
prenticed to learn the trade of a carpenter but be- 
fore the expiration of his term he enlisted, in 1862, 
as a member of Company E, One Ihindred and 
Fifteenth Ohio Infantry, and served until the close 
of the war. He was on guard duty principally, 
and was at Stone River, besides engaging in a num- 
ber of skirmishes. After an honorable service in 
his country's behalf, he was discharged at Mur- 
frecsboro, Tenu. 

Subsequently, Mr. (ioodmau removed to Seneca 
County, Ohio, where he followed farming pursuits 
about fifteen months. That occupation proving 
unsatisfactory, he returned to Canton and resumed 
work at his trade, traveling as a "jour" for about 
six years. For three years ensuing, he engaged 
in the lumber business and then embarked as 
a contractor, which business he has since fol- 
lowed. Among the elegant residences in Can- 
ton for which he had the contract may be 
mentioned those of C. K. Roberts, Rev. Mr. Noel, 
Martin Zimmerman, John J. Aikens, Milton Hard- 
ing, William Stone, Conrad Shade, Mrs. Ou'W"' 
George AV. Meyer, Jonathan Sherrick, besides two 
stations for the C. C. ik S. Railroad and a large 
number of other buildings. His work has always 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFXORD. 



145 



been of such a character as to commend itself to 
the people of Canton and vicinity, while his inte- 
rior finish and decorations arc equalled bv few, sur- 
passed by none. 

October 1, 1866, the marriage of 'William W. 
(ioodnian and Miss Louise A. Sanders took place 
at the home of the bride's parents. She is the 
daughter of Gilbert and Irena (Brooks) Sanders, 
who were natives of New York and Connecticut 
respectively. Tiiey snbsequentl3- settled in Huron 
County, Ohio, and it was in that county that Mrs. 
Goodman was married. Three children born of 
the union now survive: Nellie E., Pearl and Mary. 
As might be expected, Mr. Goodman is identified 
with the Grand Army of the Republic and is one 
of the prominent meml)ers of the post at Canton. 
Politically, he is a Republican. 



eAPT. HENRY HUBER, Treasurer of Elm 
Run Coal Mine, and one of the much 
esteemed and worthy citizens of Stark 
County, Ohio, is of foreign birth, like many other 
prominent citizens of the county. He was born 
in Prussia, near Sorbruch, on the 20th of Januar3', 
1842, aud his parents, George and Dorothy Huber, 
were natives also of that country. The father was 
a miner and followed that occupation in the coal 
mines of his native country until his death. 
Afterward, the mother aud one child crossed the 
ocean to America, and in the same year, 1853, 
located in Summit County, Ohio, near Clinton. 
Thej' suhsequentlj' moved to a point near Massil- 
lon, .and there the mother received her final sum- 
mons, dying in 1875. She was an excellent woman 
and a most exemplary member of the Lutheran 
Church. 

The original of this notice received his earl^' 
education in his native country, and was eleven 
3'ears of age when he came with his mother to the 
"land of the free." He at once began working in 
the coal mines of Ohio, and attended school dur- 
ing the winter months, thus receiving a good 



practical education, which has since been greatly 
improved by observation and reading. He was 
employed in the mines until 1859, when he came 
to Massillon and began clerking in Richardson's 
grocery store, remaining there until the tocsin of 
war sounded to arms. On the 17th of Julj-, 1861, 
he enlisted in Company D, Thirtj'-second Ohio 
Ijfantr^', was mustered in at Bartlctt as a private, 
and was sent to West Virginia. He participated 
in the battle of Greenbrier and passed the winter 
at Cheat Mountain. Later, he was in the battles 
of Cross Keys and Harper's Ferry, where the whole 
array was captured and paroled. He went to Chi- 
cago, was promoted to be Sergeant and about Christ- 
mas he went to Cleveland, where he was ex- 
changed. In February of the following year, he 
returned South to Memphis, and was in the siege 
of Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, 
Champion Hill, and other engagements. He was 
promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant on the 
24th of July, 1863, and in February, 1864, he 
went with Sherman to Meridian, thence home on 
a veteran furlough for thirty days. After this, he 
went to Cairo, thence to Paducah, from there to 
Huntsville, then to Rome, finding Sherman's army 
at Big Shady. He took part in the battle of Ken- 
esaw Mountain, where he commanded the com- 
panj-, was afterward in the siege of Atlanta and 
was near when McPherson was killed. On the 
22nd of July, 1864, he was wounded in the left 
thigh l\v a minie-ball that broke the lione, and 
was carried to the Twenty-third Corps Hospital. 
Two d.ays later, he was sent to Chattahoochee River, 
Fourteenth Corps Hospital, and there remained 
until August 1, when he was sent to Chattanooga, 
Tenn. There he remained until May 16, when he 
was sent home on a cot, as he was not able to sit 
up. May 30, he received his discharge. He did 
not leave his bed until Jul}' 4, when he was just 
able to sit up, and he did not attempt to do any 
work until 1866. On the 26th of November, 
1864, he was promoted to the rank of Captain of 
his company' bj- Gov. Bruff. He was one of the 
bravest soldiers who ever trod the red soil of a 
battlefield, and was ever cool, calm, collected and 
prudent. Capt. Huber has just returned from a 
ramble over the old battlegrounds, aud saw the 



146 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



place where he was wounded. He brought back 

with him relics in the way of bullets, pieces of 
shell, etc. 

In 1866, he became book-kee|)er for the AVellbank 
Coal Company, continued with them until 1874, 
and was then book-keeper for the Grove Coal Com- 
pan.y until 1881. After this, he was book-keeper 
for the Elm Run Coal Company', and in 1884 he be- 
came a stockholder. He was Secretary and Treas- 
urer until 1890, and since then has been Treasurer 
alone. He is also interested in the Massillon City 
Coal Company', and owns a fine residence at No. 125 
Green Street. He was married here first in 1868, 
to Miss Esther Bowen, a native of Summit County, 
Ohio, and three children came to bless this union: 
Mame, a graduate of the High School; Nell, now 
Mrs. Dr. Gardner, of JIassillon; and Gertrude, at 
home. The Captain's second marriage occurred in 
Massillon, in 1876, to Miss Ruth L. Hargrove, a 
native of Massillon, and they have two interesting 
children: Pearl and Trix. Our subject is a mem- 
ber of the City Council from the Third Ward, and 
is holding his second term. He was President of 
the Board one term. He is also a member of the 
Board of Education and has held other positions 
of importance. Socially, he is a member of the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights 
of Pythias, and Hart Post No. 134, G. A. R., being 
Past Commander for several years. He is a stanch 
advocate of Republican principles. 



^>-^<l 



P JACKSON is a native-born resident of Stark 
County, Ohio, his birth occurring in Law- 
rence Township, on the 13th of December, 
1826, and the reputation which he has enjoyed has 
been not only that of a substantial and progressive 
farmer, but of an intelligent and thoroughly- 
posted man in all public afl'airs. He is a sou of 
James Jackson, who was born in Nova Scotia, and 
who was left an orphan when but ten j-ears of age. 
When he had reached the age of fourteen years, he 
c«me to the United States and settled in Vermont, 



where he remained for some time. From there, he 
went to Ohio when a j'onng man and took np one 
hundred and sixty acres in Lawrence Township, 
Stark Countj'. However, when first settling in the 
county, he took up eight}- acres about two and a- 
half miles from Massillon, but subsequently traded 
this for one hundred and sixty acres in Lawrence 
Township. He was first married to a Miss Mc- 
Caugliey and afterward settled on the farm in 
Lawrence Township that he had taken up from the 
Government. Three children, a daughter and two 
sons, were born of this mairiage and were named 
as follows: Mariah, Robert and .James. After the 
death of his first wife, Mr. Jackson wedded Miss 
Sarah Stout, a native of Pennsjivania, and seven 
sons and three daughters blessed this union, viz.: 
Nancy, Eliza, David (our subject), Rachel, John, 
Andrew, Kelley, Henry, Hiram and William. 

Of these thirteen children, twelve are living at 
the present time. Henry died during the late war. 
Our subject, wIk) was the eldest son by the second 
marriage, p.assed his boyhood and j'outh in his na- 
tive place and received a good common-school 
education. He remained under the parental roof 
until twenty -six years of age, and his first marriage 
was with Miss Sarah A. Meutzer, on the 10th of 
June, 1856. Two children were born of this 
union, both sons: Champy, of Lawrence Township, 
and Alphus (deceased). Mrs. Jackson died on the 
27th of June, 1860, and Mr. Jackson's second mar- 
riage occurred on the 23d of October, 1862, to 
Miss Ann M. Sliriver. who died on the 5th of July, 
1869. The fruits of this union were three sons: 
Charley, at Akron; Sterman, of Massillon, and 
Frank (deceased). The next union of our subject 
was with Miss Lovina Carver, this marriage oc- 
curring on the 7th of May, 1872. She was born 
in Summit County, Ohio. Two daughters blessed 
this union: Ada. a music teacher, and Rosa, a gradu- 
ate of the High School in Fulton. 

Our subject resided on the old homestead until 
1859, and then started a lumber yard in Canal 
Fulton, carrying it on for about sixteen 3'ears, af- 
ter which he gave it up and turned his attention 
to farming. He located on his present farm, which 
consists of forty-four acres, in 1883, and he is also 
the owner of one hundred and fifty-two acres on 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



147 



section 13 of the same township, the old liome- 
stead, which he rents. Mr. Jackson is now inter- 
ested in raising fine horses. In politics, he was at 
one time a Democrat, afterward a Republican and 
is now a stanch Prohibitionist. In his religious 
views, Mr. Jackson is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church of Canal Fulton and has been 
Trustee of the same. He owns three dwelling 
houses in Canal Fulton which he rents, and on the 
farm, the old homestead entered by his father in 
1811, there is a good coal bank, from which Mr. 
Jackson has realized a handsome profit. 



H. SHAFER, M. D., a prominent i)racti- 
tioner of Alliance, was born in Osnaburg 
Township, Stark County, November 26, 
1854, and is a son of John and Mary 
(Roose) Shafer, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio 
respectivel3'. The Shafer family is of German 
origin. The grandfather of our subject was born 
in Germany, and at an early day settled in Penn- 
sylvania, where he followed farming. He was a 
soldier in the War of 1812, and in 1837 he re- 
moved to Stark County, Ohio, locating near Can- 
ton, where he resided until his death. The mater- 
nal ancestors came from the Keystone State at an 
early day, and located in Stark County, near Free- 
burgh. The father of our subject was an agricul- 
turist and a prominent stock-dealer. He owned 
a nice farm, and lived in comfortable circum- 
stances. 

Our subject is one of a family of two sons and 
a daughter, but his brother is now deceased. In 
the usual manner of farmer lads, he was reared to 
manhood, following the plow and harrow in his 
boyhood days. His education was acquired in the 
district schools, the Avery Academy, of Canton, 
and Hiram College, of Portage County. His fa- 
ther having died, and his finances being somewhat 
reduced, he was forced to abandon his collegiate 
course, and began the study of medicine witii Drs. 
B. A. and I. Whiteleather, of Osnaburg, Ohio. In 



the autumn of 1879, he entered the Starling Medi- 
cal College, of Columbus, in which he pursued his 
studies one year. He then practiced medicine 
until the fall of 1881, when he went to Cleveland, 
Ohio, and was graduated from the old Western Re- 
serve Medical College in the spring of 1882. He 
immediately thereafter located in Alliance, where 
he has since engaged in the prosecutiou of his pro- 
fession, having secured a large and lucrative prac- 
tice among the best class of people. He has paid 
strict attention to his business, and as thorough 
preparation and natural talent well fitted him for 
medical practice, he has been verj' successful in his 
life work. 

The Doctor has been twice married. In the au- 
tumn of 1879, he wedded Miss Angle Reed, by 
whom he had one child, now deceased. He was 
again married, in August, 1882, his second union 
being with Miss Susie C. Allen, of Alliance. The 
Doctor and his wife are well-known residents of 
this city, rank high in si^cial circles, and are held 
in warm regard by their many friends. 

Dr. Shafer holds membership witji the Stark 
County Medical Society, and is a member of the 
Alumni of the Western Reserve Medical Societ}'. 
He also belongs to the Knights of the Maccabees, 
of which he is medical examiner, and is medical 
director and one of the originators of the Order of 
Adelphia. He is also examiner for several leading 
insurance companies. 



^^^HOMAS NOBLE, deceased. 



When a citizen 
,/^^ of worth and character has departed this 
^^0 life, it is well that those who survive him 
should keep green in their memories his many 
deeds of merit, and his numerous virtues and char- 
acteristics should be held up for the emulation of 
the young. Thomas Noble was distinguished for 
his many virtues, and his life was a complete and 
well-spent one. He was born in Westmoreland 
County, England, December 24, 1807, where his 



148 



PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPIUCAL RECORD. 



father. Thomas Noble, also was born. The lat- 
ter was a fanner and extensive dealer in sheep, 
and was a man well calculated to rear his son to 
honorable and useful manhood. lie was tlie father 
of three daughters and tiiree sons, of whom Tiiomas. 
the subject of this sketch, was the eldest. The lat- 
ter w.HS reared in his native shire. l>ut obtained his 
knowledge of books in Lancashire. 

Our subject was of an ambitious and enterpris- 
injr disposition, and for some time America had 
been llie goal of his ambition, so for the purpose 
of bettering his condition, he crossed the ocean to 
this country in 1833, and almost immediately came 
to Stark County, Ohio, locating on a farm in .lack- 
son Township, on which he resided until his death 
in 1847. At the time of his demise, he was the 
owner of eight hundred .acres of land, .and was 
without doubt one of the leading farmei-s of the 
county. In addition to tiiis property, he also 
owned a like amount of real estate in Moultrie 
County, 111., and, like his father before him, he was 
an extensive dealer in sheep, and on various occa- 
sions owned as high ,'»s tiiree thousand head. He 
was a member of the Church of Knglaud. and \)o- 
litically. w.ns a Repuhlic.in. 

Mi-s. Noble, his widow, was formerly Miss Isabel 
Cooper, and she. as well as her father, Robert 
Cooper, was born in Westmoreland County, Eng- 
land, her birth occurring March 31. 1811. The 
father was a well-to-do farmer in England, and 
was called from life at the advanced .age of eighty 
yeai-s. His wife, formerly Miss Isabel Thompson, 
was born in Westmoreland County, and died in 
her sixtieth year. She bore her husband five sons 
and three daughters, all of whom grew to m.an- 
hood and wom.anhood and reared families, with 
the exception of one son, who died an old bache- 
lor in Philadelphia. Pa. The names of these chil- 
dren are as follows: Thomas, Agnes, Mary, Isabel, 
.lames. Robert; George, of Cleveland, Ohio; and 
William, a successful farmer of England. All are 
now deceased except Isabel (Mi-s. Noble), George 
and William. Mrs. Noble was given the advan- 
tages of the common schools in her native land, 
and remained with her |)arents until her marriage 
with Mr. Noble in 1832, coming with him the next 
year to Stark Countv, Ohio. She became the mother 



of the following children: Thomas, in San Diego, 
Cal.; .lohnnie, who died at the .age of three years; 
John (No. 2), a resident of Wichitxa, Kan.; AVilliam, 
who died at the age of ihirtv-two years; Robert, a 
resident of Champaign County, 111.; Isabel, the 
eldest child, married Simpson Harniount, and died 
at Canal Dover. Ohio; and twin children, wIk) died 
in infancy. All these children were born in .Stark 
County. Ohio, and were sent to school at M.issillon 
and Pittsburgh. In the domestic circles. Mi-s. Ni>- 
Itlc is a model mother, loves her children witii ex- 
treme devotion, and has made their happiness and 
contfort tlie chief aim and object of her life. She 
is well off linancially. .and is the owner of two 
hundred and eiahtv acres of fertile land. 



r^ 



ETER MILLER. This well-known and 
highly resi)ected citizen of Perrv Town- 
^ ship died at his pleasant home many _vears 
ago. He made this county his home in 
an early d.ay, and thus witnessed the marvelous 
growth of the country from a v.ast wilderness to 
beautiful and productive farms and thriving vil- 
lages. He was a hard-working and intelligent 
farmer, and at his death left a good estate. 

He of whom we write was born in Pennsyl- 
vania, and was the son of John and Barbara 
Miller. Our subject emigrated with his family to 
this county and made settlement in Perry Town- 
ship, taking up his abode in a large log house 
which he erected on his new farm. He industri- 
ously set to work to clear his purchase, until it 
ranked among the best in the township. He was 
a prominent man, and his memory will ever be 
held in reverence for his service in upbuilding his 
section, as well as for his influence iu promoting the 
spiritual welfare of the community-, where he was 
well known and honored. 

Mr. Miller was united in marriage with Miss 
liarbara Fausler. and to them was born a famil\- 
of eleven children, of whom the following survive: 
Catherine, the widow of D.aniel Smith; Amie and 



5^, 




•r" / 



/U.y&-i,i/r1) t^!f^t-HA^ 






{/ o-yi^n^ ^, (y 



'7~Vt-»-T-t/^ 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



151 



L3'dia. Mr. Miller, a quarter of a century ago, de- 
parted tills life on the farm where his (laughters 
now reside, and his good wife followed him to the 
better land on the sueceeding day, and was buried in 
the same grave with her husband in the Reformed 
('Lurch cemetery at Navarre. He was a Democrat 
in politics, and well known in his locality as a de- 
voted member of the Reformed Church, tt) which 
denomination his wife also belonged. 

The daughters of our subject make their home 
upon a valual)le estate of one hundred and twenty 
acres, which they are managing in a most business- 
like and profitable manner. Tlie^' are also mem- 
bers of the same church to which their parents be- 
longed. Thej' have a home replete with those 
comforts which add to the pleasure of many, and 
whoever crosses its threshold is sure of a cordial 
reception. 



JlJ OHN J. TRUMP, who for a number of years 
I was one of the prominent farmers of Stark 
I County, and is now living retired in Canton, 
.^j_J/ was born on the 14th of May, 1817, in 
Canton Township, and is a representative of two 
of the leading pioneer families of this community. 
His grandfather, .John Trump, was a native of 
Pennsylvania, and with his family came to Stark 
County- in 1812,settling amid the forests of Canton 
Township, on the farm now owned by our subject. 
He vvas a shoemaker bj- trade, but followed agri- 
cultural pursuits throughout much of his life, and 
also dealt in real estate. He stood high as a citizen 
and was an honored pioneer. His wife bore the 
maiden name of Elizabeth Jacobs, and was also a 
native of the Keystone State. 

.lohn Ti'ump, father of our subject, was born in 
Adams County, Pa., in January, 1796, and with 
his parents came to the Buckeye .State. He mar- 
ried Sarali Esig, who was born in Cumberland 
County, Pa., in 1799, and was a daughter of Simon 
and Julia Ann Ksig. Accompanied by his family, 
her father came to this county in 1806, casting in 



his lot with its early settlers. He was a blacksmith 
and in connection witli tiiat trade carried on 
farming. Mrs. Trump died in 18.59, preceding 
her husband to the final rest about twenty years, 
Mr. Trump passing away in 1879. During the 
war he was a stanch Union man and a warm advo- 
cate of the administration in power. He held the 
oflice of Township Trustee and stood high in the 
estimation of his friends and fellow-townsmen. 

In the usual manner of farmer lads, the subject 
of tliis sketch was reared to manhood, while in the 
subscription school, which he attended a few weeks 
in the winter season, he acquired his education. 
His teacher knew little more than the pupils and 
his advantages were thus very limited, but his 
training at farm work was not meagre. He aided 
in the cultivation of the home farm until he had 
attained to man's estate, when he started out to 
earn his own livelihood. 

In May, 1838, Mr. Trump was joined in wedlock 
with Miss Mar}' Rank, a daughter of Abraham 
Rank, one of the early settlers of the community, 
and they became the parents of a family of four 
sons and four daughters, as follows: Emeline, now 
the wife of Samuel Fasnaught; Sarah, wife of E. 
Smith, a farmer; Alfred and Amos who are agri- 
culturists; Maria, wife of John IT. AVerner, a prom- 
inent merchant and real-estate dealer, of Canton; 
Loran, a carpenterand builder; Ella, wife of David 
Houtz, a farmer; and John, a teamster. 

In 1844, Mr. Trump purchased his father's farm, 
comprising one hundred and seventy-two acres, at 
$50 per acre, and devoted his energies to its im- 
provement and cultivation for almost forty-four 
years. In 1870, be retired from active farming 
and has since rested in the enjoyment of the fruits 
of his former toil. In 1882, he was called upon 
to mourn the loss of his wife, who died in the 
month of June. While living in Canton Township, 
Mr. Trump served as Trustee while the war was in 
progress. In politics, he is a stanch Republican 
and keeps himself well informed on the issues of 
the day and all other questions of general interest. 
With the English Reformed Church he holds mem- 
bership. He owns considerable valuable property 
in the shape of town lots, beside his home at No. 
505 East Lake St. Ills residence in this county 



152 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



covers a period of seventy-five years, and few have 
!-o long been settlers here. He has witnessed much 
of its growth and upbuilding, has aided in its dc- 
velo])ment and is honored as one of it^; pioneers. 



/^ 



JACOB L. OBERLIN. The farm which is oc- 
cupied by the above-named gentleman is one 
of the most highly developed in Stark 
County. It consists of one hundred and 
sixteen acres on section 32, Plain Township, and 
tlie passing stranger will note with delight the 
ample accommodations for stock and crops and 
the means that have been taken to enliance the 
comfort of the dwellers thereon. The residence 
is of pleasing architectural design, convenient in 
arrangement, and displaj-s in its neatness and 
order the care of a tasteful woman. 

Mr. Oberlin was born on the old homestead 
March 10, 1830, and is a son of Adam Oberlin, 
who was horn January 26, 1802, in Lancaster 
County, Pa. The grandparents of our subject 
were born in Germany and, emigrating to the 
New AVorld, made their home in the Ke^y- 
stone State. The grandfather was a soldier in 
the Revolutionary War and died in Pennsylvania 
when the father of our subject was but sixteen 
years of age. The latter, determining to see what 
\&y in store for him in the Buckeye State, in 
1824 came on foot to this county and located on 
what is now the property of our subject, when the 
only improvement which the tract bore was a log 
house and barn. Among the Indians and wild 
animals he entered upon the pioneer work which 
resulted in securing to his family a good home, 
and that his efforts in tilling the soil were crowned 
with success is indicated from the fact that at 
his death he left an estate of one hundred and 
thirty-six acres. He possessed at one time three 
different farms, which he sold, and in this way 
added to his already good income. His decease, 
which occurred in 1881, took place at the resi- 



dence of his daughter, Mrs. Reems, in Henry. He 

was an active member of the German Lutheran 
Church and enjoyed the respect of many friends. 
.\ Republican in politics, he was ever ready to ad- 
vance the interests of his party by his ballot, per- 
sonal influence and argument. 

Mrs. Elizabeth (Albright) Oberlin, the mother 
of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania in 1802, 
and when a girl of fourteen years came to this 
county with her parents, where she met and mar- 
ried the father of our subject. Their union was 
blessed to them b}' the birth of nine children, of 
whom the following six are living: Elizabeth, 
Anna, .lacob L., Catherine, Harriet and Emma. 
The mother, who was also a devoted member of 
the German Lutheran Church, died in 1871. She 
was the daughter of Frederick Albright, who 
came overland to this county in an early day and, 
purchasing property in Plain Township, there 
developed from the wilderness a good farm of one 
hundred and thirty acres. At the time of his set- 
tlement here, the city of Canton contained only 
a few log houses, and with characteristic energy 
he set to work to cultivate his land, and in this 
way added to the material prosperity of the town- 
ship. He was of German descent, so far as is 
known, and lived to advanced years. 

.Jacob L. Oberlin, of this sketch, was reared in 
his native county, and received a fair education 
in the district school. The occupation of his early 
life was congenial to his tastes, and he therefore gave 
his attention in later years to fanning and stock- 
raising, in which he has proved successful. When 
twenty-Bve years of age, he took charge of the 
home place, which he cultivated on shares for 
nine }'ears, when it came into his possession by 
purchase. 

The home of Mr. Oberlin is presided over by a 
lady of energetic nature and great intelligence, who 
was known in her maidenhood as Miss Sarah E. 
Po3-ser. She was born in this county and has 
become the mother of six children, namely: Will- 
iam, Norman, Charles, .John, Walter and Martha. 
Their marriage was solemnized in 1864, and in 
their community they enjoy the friendship of the 
best residents. Mr. Oberlin had been previously 
married in 18.^5 to Sarah Spangler, who was born 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



153 



in this township, and their union was blessed by 
the birth of thiee cliildren: .Tosiah W., wlio resides 
in Portage County; Clara, Mrs. Racer, who makes 
her home in Trumbull County; and Laura, Mrs. 
Burry, who is living in Shelb^'ville, 111. The 
mother died in 1863. 

As before stated, he of whom we write owns 
one hundred and sixteen acres of land and is 
successfully engaged in mixed farming. Among 
the numerous and commodious buildings on his 
farm is a modern frame residence, which was 
erected in 1883, and which is supplied with many 
conveniences, wiiieli make of it one of the pleas- 
antest homes in the county. Our subject also has 
a large frame barn, which lie built in 1882. The 
familj- are attendants of the Knglish Lutheran 
Church and are classed among the respected mem- 
bers of society-. 

Our subject lias given sufficient attention to 
politics to satisfy himself as to the merits of the 
parties, and always deposits a Republican ballot. 
For the past seventeen years he has served as 
Sciiool Director, and been a member of the Town- 
ship Board for eleven years in succession. He is 
active in social matters and gives his aid and coun- 
tenance to the progressive and elevating enter- 
prises that are promulgated in this vicinity, and 
that he is respected by his associates it is needless 
to say. 



b <■'?■'> I 



ill OHN L. STEELE is one of those to whom 
Stark County owes its agricultural wealth 
j^^, , and its advanced civilization. Born here 
f^Jj iMarcii 21, 1826, he has thus been working 
with his hands, and planning with his mind, for 
many years, and bearing an honest man's part in 
the progress of the section in which he makes his 
liome. He has a good farm, consisting of one hun- 
dred and fifty-nine acres in Tuscarawas Township, 
every foot of which shows his skill and energy', 

James and Margaret (Latimer) Steele, the par- 
ents of our subject, like many of the best residents 



of this section, were born in Pennsylvania. The 
maternal grandfather, Robert Latimer, was one 
of the first settlers in Osnaburg Township, while 
Grandfather Arcliibald Steele emigrated to this 
country from Ireland about 1790. He made loca- 
tion with his fainil>' on the land which he had en- 
tered from the Government during President 
Madison's administration. Archibald Steele was 
a descendant of Robert Steele, who, on being 
driven out of Scotland, located in the North of 
Ireland. 

James Steele, the father of our subject, was very 
prominent in local affairs, and after coming to 
Stark County, held the office of Justice of the 
Peace. Unassuming in manner, he lived a straight- 
forward and upright life, and had man}' warm 
friends who esteemed him for his sterling worth. 
John L., of this sketch, was reared to manhood on 
the estate where he now resides, and conned his 
lessons in the old-fashioned log schoolhouse with 
slab benches and other primitive fittings. The 
country roundabout was the haunt of deer and 
other wild animals, scmie of which fell before his 
musket. By degrees, the condition of the country 
improved, and when old enough to be of assistance, 
he aided his father in cultivating the home farm, 
until it became fit for the abundant raising of 
crops, and marked by buildings superior to the 
original dwellings here. 

The lad}- to whom Mr. Steele was married Jan- 
uary 9, 1852, was JMiss Margaret M. Christman, a 
native of Westmoreland Count}', Pa., and the 
daughter of Henr}' and Susan (Bash) Christman. 
Mrs. Steele has a brother William and a sister Sa- 
rah who still survive. By her union with our 
subject she has become the mother of three chil- 
dren: James H., a prominent minister in the Re- 
formed Church; William, who is a practicing phy- 
sician at Navarre, and Ida, who married John 
Erb. 

Mr. Steele believes in the principles laid down 
in the Republican platform, and supports them on 
every election da}'. He is a man of excellent moral 
character and much intelligence, and commands 
the respect of his fellow-men in a high degree. In 
worldly affairs he has shown his ability, having 
climbed from the bottom of the financial ladder to 



154 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



a position wiiere comfort is assured and undue 
anxiety regarding the future is done away with. 
Besides the one hundred and fifty-nine acres of 
whicli he is the owner, his wife owns in lier own riglit 
sixt}' acres of valuable land. Mr. Steele has served 
as Treasurer of his township, and with his wife is 
a devoted member of the Reformed Church. 



-^-M^^^^IE 



R.JACOB F. MARCHAND. The value 
.., MM to any community of a professional man 
/^J^«**^ is not marlied merely 1)V his learning and 
slvill, his proficiency in medical and surg- 
ical practice, but also by iiis character, both private 
and professional, his honorable adherence to med- 
ical etliics and his personal integrity and benevo- 
lence of purpose. When a physician combines 
these characteristics, it is with great pleasure that 
we record his life work, and such a man do we 
find in Dr. Marchand. 

Tliis ph3'sician of Canton, Ohio, was born in 
Irwin, Westmoreland County, Pa., on the 17th of 
Feljruary, 1858. His father, Abrani Marchand, 
was also a native of the Keystone State, as was also 
the grandfather, Frederick Alarchand. Abram 
Marchand was a very successful business man and 
was a public-spirited and worthy citizen. He mar- 
ried Miss Rachel Saam, a native of Pennsylvania, 
and the daughter of Adam Saam. After marriage, 
Mr. and Mrs. Marchand settled at Irwin, where 
they passed the remainder of their days as worthy 
and esteemed citizens. 

The original of this sketch is the youngest 
of seven children, five daughters and two sons, 
five of whom still survive. Tlie Doctor passed his 
boyhood and 3-outh in his native county- and re- 
ceived a thorough education in tlie city schools, 
remaining in the same until fifteen jears of age. 
Up to the age of nineteen, he tauglit school in the 
village, and subsequently entered the preparatory 
department of the AVashington and Jefferson (Pa.) 
College. In 1878, he was in the freshman class, 
and in 1882 he was graduated from tlie classical 



department. The same year, he was elected Prin- 
cipal of the High School at Canton, Ohio, and 
filled that i>osition in a creditable manner for two 
years. 

In 1884, he entered the medical department of 
the University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia, 
where he was graduated in 1887. The same year, 
he took the degree of Master of Arts in the Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College and then came to 
Canton, where he has since been engaged in the 
practice of his profession. Although young in 
years, Dr. Marchand has already won an enviable 
reputation as a practitioner of the healing art and 
has served two 3-ears as City Physician. In 1889, 
he was elected City Health Officer and this position 
he still holds. For the past four years, he has been 
School Examiner of the city teachers. He has for 
three years been surgeon of the Valley Railroad, 
and he is at present one of the visiting physicians 
to the Infirmary. He was one of the incorporators 
of the Aultman Hospital and is one of the visiting- 
surgeons of the same. The Doctor is a member of the 
Northeast Ohio Medical Association; Stark County 
Academy of Medicine, and a member of the H. C. 
Wood Medical Society at Philadelphia, and the 
American Medical Association. 

Dr. Marchand was married, on the 30th of April, 
1891, to Miss Laura S. Martin, of Canton, and they 
have one son. Charles Martin. Mrs. Marchand 
is the daughter of the Hon. H. S. Martin and was 
reared and educated in Canton. Dr. and Mrs. 
Marchand have a pleasant residence at No. 17 
North Cleveland Avenue, and the Doctor has his 
office there nlsf). lie is of French-Huguenot de- 
scent. 



yjILLlAM KROFT. The men wiio have de- 
voted themselves to developing and ex- 
'^^ tending the agriculture of Stark County 
are deserving of more than passing notice, and oc- 
cupying an honorable place among these is the 



PORTRAIT AND BlOnRAPHICAL RECORD. 



165 



subject of this biographical review, wlio is resid- 
ing ill Canton Township, where his birth occurred 
April 4, 1835. His farming interests are centered 
on section 24, where he has fifty-six acres of land, 
on which he has placed an ample set of buildings, 
and made other excellent improvements. 

Michael Ivroft, the father of our subject, was 
born in Pennsylvania, while his father, Henry 
Kroft, was a native of Germany, and on coming 
to America, when a j'oung man, located in the 
Keystone State, where he followed his trade of a 
shoemaker until his decease. Michael Kroft came 
to this county in an earlj- period of its histoiy, 
and during the War of 1812 served as a soldier in 
that struggle. He was a blacksmith by trade, 
which line of business he followed from the age 
of sixteen to sixty years. On taking up his abode 
in this township, he opened up a shop on section 
25, and performed work for the settlers for miles 
around his home. Wild game of all kinds was 
plen tiful. and squirrels, especially ,were so numerous 
that one could almost knock them from the trees 
witii clubs. The father was an energetic and up- 
right citizen, and at his death, which occurred 
when past eighty-eight years of age, he had 
reached a good position in a financial way, and 
during his residence in this county demonstrated 
his work as a man and a citizen. Religiously, he 
was identified with the Lutheran Cliurch, in the 
faith of which he laid aside the cares of life and 
entered into rest. In politics, he was a Democrat. 

Oui- subject's mother bore the maiden name of 
Mary Liclitenwalter, and was a native of Penn- 
sylvania, wlienco she was brought to this county by 
her parents when eighteen months old. By her 
union with Michael Kroft, she became the mother 
of three children: William (our subject), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. Spoiiseller) and Susannah (Mrs. 
Shoultz). The mother died in her seventy -eighth 
year, and, like her husband, was a devoted member 
of the Lutheran Churcli. 

He whose name inlroduces this sketch was reared 
to manhood on section 25, and amid tlie surround- 
ings of rural life early learned lessons of practical 
skill and persistent industry, and in the schools of 
the neighborhood acquired an understanding in 
the ordinaiy branches of study. When sixteen 



years of age, he was apprenticed to learn 
the wagon-maker's trade, which business he fol- 
lowed for ten years on the old home place, and in 
which work he was fairly successful. 

In 1871, William Kroft and Miss Elizabeth 
Deckard were united in marriage; tiie lady was 
born in this township, and for a sketch of her fam- 
ily tiie reader is referred to the biography of Henry 
Decktird, her brother, elsewhere in this volume. To 
Air. and Mrs. Kroft have been born four children: 
.Jasper, Morena, Ida May and Mary J. Our sub- 
ject purciiased his present farm of fifty-six acres 
in 1876, and is now successfully engaged in mixed 
farming, keeping on his place good grades of stock. 
His present large frame residence was erected in 
1884, and his substantial barn in 1881). Mrs. Kroft 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and has 
hosts of warm friends in this vicinity. Politically 
speaking, our subject is a sound Democrat, and 
I'avors all things that will in any way elevate so- 
ciety and contribute to the happiness and well- 
being of the people. 



'jfjOSEPH A. REED, County Recorder, and a 
resident of Canton, has spent his entire life 
' in Stark County. He was born in Plain 
Township, on the 29tli of May, 1855, and 
is a son of AVilliam and Elizabeth (AVise) Reed, 
both of whom are natives of the Buckeye .Stale. He 
is a representative of two of tlio earl^- families of 
this county . His paternal grandfather. .lohn Reed, 
settled here in 1815, and his maternal grandfather, 
Adam Wise, was also numbered among the pio- 
neers. The parents of our subject are still residents 
of Canton. 

Joseph is the eldest of llieir five children. He 
acquired his early education In the cit3' schools 
and afterward entered the High School. On com- 
pleting his literary education, he pursued a busi- 
ness course of study in Duff 's Commercial College, 
of Pittsburgh, Pa., during the winter of 1872-73. 
He was now fitted to enter upon a business career. 



156 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



and sought and secured a position with the Wrought 
Iron Bridge Company', serving in the capacity of 
book-keeper for a period of four years. He then 
began business on his own account as a nursery- 
man, in which he is still engaged. He was 
afterward appointed Deput}- Clerk in the County 
Treasurer's office and served in that capacity 
for several years. In the autumn of 1891, he 
was elected County Recorder on the Republican 
ticket for a term of three years and entered upon 
the discharge of his duties on the 4th of January, 
1892. 

The lady who is now Mrs. Reed was, in her 
maidenhood. Miss Ida A. Lupher, of Canton, 
daughter of John Lupher. Their marriage was 
celebrated in 1875, and has been blessed with 
three children, namely: Ruth 0., Howard R., and 
Florence. 

Mr. Reed's election to tlie office of County 
Recorder was strong evidence of his personal pop- 
ularity and the confidence reposed in him, for the 
county is Democratic. He has displaj-ed good 
ability in the faithful performance of his duties 
thus far, and will, no doubt, prove one of the most 
able Recorders that Stark Count}' has ever known. 
He is held in high regard throughout the commu- 
nity and those who have known him from his boy- 
hood and witnessed his entire career are among his 
stanchest friends. 



^>-^<m 



ON. WILLIAM J. PIERO, ex-Mayor, and 
J; an able law3'er of Canton, doing business 
at No. 8 North Market Street, was born in 
the cit3' which is still his home Septem- 
ber 8, 1852, and was the fourth son and fifth 
child in a family of eight children, whose parents 
were Francis and Julia Ann (Krantz) Piero. The 
father was born in Alsace, France, and the mother 
in Hesse, Germany. The former emigrated to Amer- 
ica in 1833, landing in New York City, whence he 
came to Canton. For many years he was inter- 
ested in the boot and shoe business, but in 1860 



sold out and embarked in the bakery and confec- 
tionery business, which he carried on in Canton 
until 1880. He then sold out and retired from 
active business life. He was born November 3, 
1820. and his wife in June of the same year. 
Both are still living, and are well-known residents 
of Canton. 

We now take up the personal history of our 
subject, who, on leaving school, secured a position 
as office boy with Judge S. Meyer, with whom he 
remained two years. He then engaged in clerking 
in a clothing store for two years, after which he 
returned to the office of Judge Meyer and began 
reading law. He was admitted to the Bar in Sep- 
tember, 1874, after which he remained in the office 
of his former preceptor and his son, with whom 
he practiced until 1875, when he was elected Jus- 
tice of the Peace on the Democratic ticket, serv- 
ing for a term of three years. At the expiration 
of that time, he entered into partnership with C. 
Turenne Meyer, under the firm name of Meyer it 
Piero, and with him successfuly participated in 
practice until March, 1885. 

On the 20th of December, 1883, Mr. I'icro 
was married to Miss Minnie T. Tyler, of Canton, 
daughter of Dominie T3'ler, Secretary and Treas- 
urer of the Diebold Safe & Lock Company in 
Canton. The lady was born in Newport, Kj-., and 
with her parents came to Canton when about two 
years of age. They reside at No. 15 East Fourth 
Street, and are numbered among the leading citi- 
zens of the community, where they have a wide 
circle of friends and acquaintances. 

As the fin.ancial resources of Mr. Piero have in- 
creased, he has made judicious investments in va- 
rious enterprises and is now interested in many 
leading business concerns of Canton. He is con- 
nected with the Canton Combination Lock Com- 
pany, President of the Canton Fertilizing Com- 
pany and Director of the Canton Buggy Company, 
the Cr^'stal Spring Ice Company, the Ohio Volks 
Zeitung Company and the Canton Board of Trade. 
He had no special advantages in his youth, in fact, 
began to earn his own livelihood at a very early 
age, but he has overcome the obstacles and diffi- 
culties in his patli and worked his way upward to 
a position of affluence. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 



157 



For two terms, from 1881 to 1885, Mr. Piero 
served as Maj'or of Canton, having been elected on 
the Democratic ticket, and during his administra- 
tion some valualilc improvements were made in 
the city. The Market House was erected, also 
the Citv Hall, which is a fire-proof structure, and 
the city engine house. When his term of service 
expired, he resumed the private practice of law, to 
which he now devotes his energies. He is an aV)le 
practitioner, his arguments are logical and con- 
vincing, his speech fluent, and thereby his success 
has been attained. 



/j^^EOUGE PHILL1P.S. There are various rea- 
III ^-—- sons why this gentleman deserves represen- 
^'^^J tation in a volume of a hiograpliieal nature. 
First, he is an old settler of Stark County, and has 
.'pent the greater part of his life in assisting in its 
progress in divers ways; second, from the position 
of a poor 3-outh he has risen to that of a man of 
solid finances; third, he has a character and a rep- 
utation second to none, and will leave to his pos- 
terit3- a legacy of honor far l>etter than the silver 
and gold which he has won. He is at present re- 
siding in Plain Township and is familiarly known 
.as the "pioneer blacksmith." 

We find that our subject was born in Adams 
Count}', Pa., December 28, 1812, and is the son of 
Jacob Phillips, also a native of the Keystone State. 
Grandfather George Phillips was born in Rus- 
sia and coming to America prior to the Revolu- 
tionary War, located in the above-named county, 
where he lived to attain the advanced age of 
ninety-six years. .Jacob Phillips was a carpenter 
in earl}- life, and after devoting his attention to 
agricultural pursuits, became the possessor of two 
good estates in Adams County, comprising one 
hundred and sixt}- and eighty acres, respectively. 
He served as a soldier in the War of 1812, and 
died in his native county in 1819. He was a 
Catholic in religion, and very .active in church 
affairs. 



Mrs. Elizabeth (Coe) Phillips, the mother of our 
subject, was also a native of Adams County, Pa., 
and became the mother of a large famil}- of eleven 
children, nine of whom grew to mature years and 
of whom our subject is the only surviving mem- 
ber. The wife and mother lived to the advanced 
age of eighty years and was a devoted member of 
the Catholic Church. 

George Phillips of this sketch grew to mature 
years on the home farm and received his educa- 
tion in the subscription schools of that daj'. 
When reaching his eighteenth year, he learned the 
blacksmith's trade, and after serving a three-years 
apprenticeship, worked for |2(t per month for two 
years. In May, 1832, determined to find out what 
was in store for him in the Buckeye State, young 
Phillips traveled on foot to this county, averaging 
thirty-five miles per day. Halting in the then 
village of Canton, he worked at his trade until the 
following year, when he took a trip to Wooster, 
Mansfield, Columbus and other cities, in search of 
eraploj'ment, but was not very successful. Re- 
turning to Canton, he went from there to Pennsyl- 
vania and subsequentlv coming to this State, lie 
was variously employed until 1838, when he 
erected a blacksmith shop near where the depot of 
the Cleveland, Canton it Southern Railroad now 
stands. This lie operated for nearly a quarter of 
a century and was kuf)vvn far and wide for his ex- 
cellent workmanship. 

March 3, 1836, Miss Kliza Leininger, who was 
born in Canton, December 28, 1816, became the 
wife of our subject. She was the daughter of 
George and Elizabeth (Lesh) Leininger, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who became identified with the 
interests of Stark County in a very early day. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have been born eight 
children, namely: Elizabeth, Belinda, Henry E., 
Miranda V., Charles M., Lettie, Mary E. and 
George E. Our subject located upon his present 
farm in Plain Township in 1856, when sixty acres 
of the tract had been cleared. He has placed the 
remainder of it under most excellent cultivation 
and was engaged in mixed farming until 1885, 
when his son, George E., took charge of the estate, 
and is managing it in a most profitable manner. 
The tract comprises one hundred and seventy-one 



158 



i»ORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



and one-half acres and contains all tlie buildings 
and machinery wliich go to make a first-class 
estate. 

Mr. Phillips is what raa^- tiuly be termed a self- 
made man, and when he landed in Stark County, 
he had but $10 in money, but being endowed with 
mental ability, physical strength and sturdiness of 
character, made his way in the world and is now 
living retired from active labors and enjoying the 
fruits of tliose early years of toil. He is a mem- 
ber of the German Reformed Church and is well 
known tliroughout the county, where he is not 
only influential but popular, possessing the social 
qualities and traits of character which win and 
keep friends. He was brought up to believe in 
the principles of the AVhig party, and, what nat- 
urally follows, now votes the Republican ticket. 



6 



!i,p:ORGE REX is the General Manager of the 
Hollowa}' Paving Brick Company of Can- 
'^i=^\ ton. This is one of the leading industries 
of tlie city, and our subject is recognized as one of 
the prominent business men. His life record is as 
follows: He was born in this city April 26. 1842, 
in the home which was also his father's birtliplace, 
and is the eldest son of John P. and Mary A. 
(Reed) Rex. His grandfather, Jacob Rex, was a 
native of Pennsylvania, and with his family emi- 
grated to Stark Countj^ Ohio, in 1807. By trade 
he was a tailor, and througliout tlie greater partof 
his life followed that business, and was a man 
highly respected throughout the community. For 
man}' years the father of our subject was one of 
the leading tailors of Canton. He died in 1881, 
in the sixty-third j-ear of his age. His wife passed 
away two years later, at the age of sixty-two. Her 
father, John Reed, also removed from Pennsyl- 
vania and became one of the pioneer settlers of 
tills county. 

In tlie public schools of his native city, our sub- 
ject acquired his education, and at the age of eigh- 



teen began learning the trade of a machinist in the 
works of C. Aultman <fe Company. He remained 
with that company for twenty-five j'ears, and no 
higher testimonial to his faithful service could be 
given than the statement of this fact, which at 
once indicates his fidelity to duty and the trust 
reposed in him bj- his emploj'ers. In 1862, how- 
ever, he laid aside all business cares and donning 
the blue, became a member of Company B, One 
Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Infantry under 
Col. Luc,y. His regiment was assigned to the Army 
of the Cumberland, and was principally engaged 
in guarding depots on the Chattanooga Railroad. 
After three years' service, he was lionorably dis- 
charged at Murfreesboro, Tenn. 

Mr. Rex immediately returned to Canton, and 
resumed work in the Aultman shops. In 1867, he 
was made inspector of the finishing department, 
and t.\o years later was made foreman of that de- 
partm.nt. In 1874, he became Assistant Superin- 
tendent of the works, serving in that capacity for 
nine j'ears. He then began business for himself 
as proprietor of a grocery and meat market, and 
afterward engaged in the manufacture of harness 
and handled leather largely. To that business he 
devoted his energies until 1890, and was quite 
successful. He then sold out and began the man- 
ufacture of paving and building brick. As before 
stated, he is now General Manager of theHoUoway 
Paving Brick Compan}-. Their plant is located 
four miles south of Canton, and the machinery 
used is of the best and most highly improved, be- 
ing operated hy steam. They also use the ITdalia 
kiln, and the brick manufactured is of a superior 
quality. Employment is furnished to about fortj' 
men, and the business is large and constantly 
increasing. 

In 1878, Mr. Rex married Miss Alice M. Kaiiage, 
of Wilmot, Ohio, daughter of Isaac Kanage. Two 
children grace their union, Ralph and Ella. They 
have a pleasant home at No. 195 South Plum 
Street, and are always ready to welcome their 
friends, who are m.any. 

In politics, Mr. Rex is a stalwart Republican. 
He was elected and served as Majoi' for one term, 
was a member of the City Council one term and 
also served on the School Board. Socially, he is 



^JS^ 



--..^■^ ^'%^_ 



^Sl^ 




<^/r-P^--i^^ /^^?-?<--^^o 




PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



161 



a membfir of Canton Post No. 25, G. A. R. Mr. 
Rex is alike true to every public and private trust 
and has won the confidence and high regard of all 
with whom business or social lelations have brought 
him in contact. His life has been a successful one 
and he well deserves the prosperity which has 
crowned his efforts. 



^ Q"' '' 



"iff OHN DANNEK. Distinguished among the 
most extensive and prominent manufactur- 
ing concerns of Canton, Ohio, is that oper- 
ated by the John Danner Manufacturing- 
Company, located on Navarre Street, on the Pitts- 
burgli, Ft. Wayne & Clucago Railroad, where 
they manufacture revolving book cases, store 
stools, drug cabinets, etc. The company occupies 
fine, large, new frame buildings, .50x182 feet in 
dimensions, and fitted throughout with the very 
latest appli.ances and all the machinery modern sci- 
ence and inventive genius afford for the produc- 
tion of tlieir line of manufacture. The building con- 
tains three floors and is well arranged as to light 
and other facilities. In their various departments, 
they employ from seventy-five to one hundred 
workmen, skilled and trained in the business, 
whom they keep busily- engaged in the manufac- 
ture, jiacking and shipping of their goods to all 
parts of the Union. The Danner Revolving Book 
Cases were the first practical articles of the kind 
ever patented, and all others gotten out later are 
gross infringements of the same. 

This case is the lightest and yet strongest made, 
will hold more than any other that occupies the 
same space, is made of the best quality of well- 
seasoned wood, and is finished by competent 
workmen to correspond with the finest otflce or 
parlor furniture, and the prices are the cheapest 
ever offered the public, considering capacity and 
finish. This company also manufactures book 
shelves and racks, revolving office cases, revolving 
■drug cases, drug cabinets and store stools, all of 
which are first-class in material, workmanship and 



finish. The officers of the company' are John 
Danner, President; C. B. Campbell, Superintend- 
ent; J. F. Campbell, Treasurer, and J. M. Danner, 
Secretary'. Tiie firm was first established in 187fi, 
by John Danner, for the manufacture of the book 
cases of which he is the inventor, and since that 
time it has been increasing its products of min 
ufacture and its trade facilities until to-day it is 
one of the first manufacturing institutions in im- 
portance in the city. The honor.able business meth- 
ods which have always char.acterized the transac- 
tions of the John Danner Manufacturing Company 
have secured to this house a large trade and have 
had the effect of drawing trade to this city which 
would otherwise have sought other trade centers. 

John Danner, the efficient President of tliis 
flourishing institution, is a native of Canton, 
his birth occurring on the 10th of March, 1823, 
and the reputation which he enjoys is not only 
that of a substantial and progessive business 
man, but of an intelligent and thoroughly posted 
man on all public affairs. He is the only son 
born to Jacob and Anna (Slusser) Danner, both 
natives of the grand old State of Pennsylva- 
nia, the former born in the year 1795, and the 
latter April 1, 1803. The mother was a daugh-ter 
of Philip Slusser, and the Slusser family was among 
the pioneers of Canton, and Philip Slusser in 1816 
built the first mill in Stark County. The fatlier of 
our subject was born in Centre County, Pa , and 
was married to Miss Slusser in Canton, in 1821, 
having come here in 1816, while single. His de- 
mise occurred in 1845, while the mother survived 
until 1885. They became the parents of two chil- 
dren, a son and daughter, and the latter, Harriet, 
became the wife of Joseph S. Saxton. 

John Danner was reared and educated in his 
native city, part of the time attending the private 
school taught by T. INI. Hopkins, a Presbyterian 
minister, from whom he gained much valuable 
knowledge. He began his business career as a 
clerk in the dry-goods store of Martin Wikidal, 
with whom he remained four vears. After that, 
he went to Massillon and clerked four years In 
1865, in compan3- with John R. Bucher, he started 
what is called the Canton Stove AVorks, but, not 
liking the business, sold out at the end of one 



162 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



year. After this, lie embarked in the clothing and 
dry-goods business, which he carried on until 1876, 
when he disposed of his stock. During the same 
year, he invented and patented what is known as 
the John Banner Revolving Book Case, and man- 
ufactured the same for two years in a small way, 
only about forty men being employed, but the 
strong, steady growth of the trade of the house 
reached such dimensions that it necessitated re- 
moval to more extensive and convenient premises 
to cope with the increased demand. In 1890, 
thej- removed to their present site. They sell di- 
rect to the trade throughout the United States and 
they also have a large trade in Montreal, Canada. 
Some of Mr. Banner's cases are sent to Paris, 
France; and London, England, besides other 
countries. So great is the demand for these goods 
that it is with great difficulty that they can fill the 
orders as thej' come ui. 

On the 4th of October, 1847, .Mr. Banner mar- 
ried Miss Terressa A. Millard, a native of Tioga 
County, Pa., born .July 24, 1828. She is the daugh- 
ter of William J. and Betsy J. (Ball) Millard, 
both natives of Onondaga Count}-, N. Y., who after 
their marriage removed to Tioga Countj', Pa. 
William J. Millard was a soldier in the War of 
1812, and received an lionorable discharge. Col. 
Ball, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Banner, 
also served in the War of 1812. He distinguished 
himself in several engagements and his regiment did 
good service in many sanguinary battles. Mrs. 
Banner had two brothers who served in the War of 
the Rebellion ; thus it will be seen that she is de- 
scended from a long line of patriotic ancestry. 
Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Banner, as follows: Anna died aged two years; 
Mary E., at home; .Julia A., wife of L. M. .Jones, 
attorney at Canton; Harriet N., wife of ,J. F. Camp- 
bell; Edith R., wife of S. S. C. Gaskell, of Canton; 
•lohn N. in his father's office, and Almina T.,wife of 
Charles M. Bawsel, residing at Columbus. Mr. 
Banner served six years as a member of the City 
Council and six years as a member of the School 
Board. He and his wife hold membership in the 
First Baptist Church, having joined the same in 
1842 and 1847, respectively, and Mr. Banner was 
Superintendent of the Sunda3--school for twenty 



years, also teacher of the Bible Class. He was 
formerlj' a Republican in politics but is now a Pro- 
hibitionist of the most pronounced character. He 
is deeply interested in all temperance work and 
has distributed over fifty thousand tracts and cir- 
culars touching on this question. He has always 
been found on the side of law and moralitj-, believ- 
ing in one Government, and one flag, and that the 
Stars and Stripes. He resides at No. 84 South 
Market Street and has a large frame residence, ele- 
gantly and ta.stefull\' furnished. 






5^ YRLS ZOLLAKS. Among tlie many remu- 
nerative farms in Stark County, that of 
'' Mr. Zollars, on section 24. Prairie Town- 
ship, is noticeable for the air of neatness and order 
which prevails and the value of the improvements 
which have been made upon it. It comprises one 
hundred and twenty-three acres, which, under 
careful and intelligent handling, produce abun- 
dantly and afford a profitable maintenance and 
some provision for a rainy day. 

Mr. Zollars, who is an ex-County Commissioner, 
is a native of Harrison County, this State, having 
been born February 14, 1817, to John and Frances 
(Hahn) Zollars, natives of Pennsylvania. The 
ancestors of our subject on both sides were of Ger- 
man origin, and his maternal grandfather, John 
Hahn, is said to have been a soldier in the Revo- 
lutionary War. John Zollars, the father of our 
subject, emigrated with his family from his native 
State to Harrison Count}', Ohio, about 1815. 
After a residence there of a number of years, he, 
in 1836, took up his abode in this county, locating 
with his family about four miles south of Canton, 
where thej' were among the first settlers. 

Of the six children comprised in the parental 
family, we make the following mention: Baniel 
and Enoch reside in Iowa; John makes his home 
in Henry County, this State; Cyrus was the fourth 
in order of birth; Bavid is living in Canton, tiiis 
State; Agnes, the widow of Peter Brothers, makes 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORt) 



163 



her home in Missouri. The elder Mr. Zollars took 
an active part in all local affairs and served his 
fellow-townsmen as a Trustee for some time. He 
was a hard-working, industrious man, and at the 
time of his decease, whieli occurred in Harrison 
Count}- in 1859, he left a comfortable property. 

Our subject was reared to manhood in the above- 
named county, and has performed his full share 
of pioneer work. He has always followed the 
occupation of a farmer, having been thoroughly 
drilled by his excellent father to perform all those 
duties which make farming a profitable business. 
He received his education in the log scbooUiouse 
of that period, whose primitive furnishings have 
been so often described in this book, and although 
the advantages were not such as are offered the 
youth of to-day, he made the best of them and now 
r.anks among the intelligent and cultured farmers 
of this count}-. 

May 26, 1842, Mr. Zollars was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Sarah Miller, who was born in this 
township, April 21, 1825. She is the daughter 
of George and Anne (Bucher) Miller, natives of 
the Ke^'Stone State. Her paternal grandfather, 
George Miller, was a soldier in the Revolutionary 
War and a prominent man in his locality. The 
father of Mrs. Zollars came to this county with his 
parents when a lad of fourteen years, and they 
were classed among the early settlers of Pe ry 
Township. By his marriage with Miss Bucher, he 
became the father of eight children, six of whom 
are living, viz: Mrs. Zollars; William; Caroline, 
the wife of John Deckard; Lewis; Jonathan; and 
Eliza, Mrs. Samuel Hammond. The father, who 
was a Captain in the militia at an earl}' day, died 
in this township in 1870. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Zollars have been born eight 
children, six of whom arc living: Lewis; Ellen, Mrs. 
Benjamin Schwcir; Marshall; Ada, Mrs. August 
Demeusy; Clara, Mrs. James Schreffler; and John. 
George and Franklin were soldiers in the late 
Civil War, the latter of whom died from the 
effects of a wound received at Nashville, Tenn., 
and George died while at home on a furlough. 
Lewis, the eldest son, was also in the war, but re- 
turned home unharmed. 

In the spring of 1865, Mr, Zollars of this sketch 



located upon the farm where he is at present resid- 
ing, and which his industry and good management 
have placed under excellent cultivation. Like 
his father before him, he was very prominent in 
local affairs and while a resident of Canton Town- 
ship served as its Trustee, and for three years was 
County Commissioner. He is a true-blue Repub- 
lican in politics and contributes liberally of his 
means to forward all those measures which have 
for their object the upbuilding of his community. 
His wife, to whom he has been married for a half- 
century, is a member of the Baptist Church, to 
which denomination he also belongs, and they are 
now- passing the declining years of their life in the 
enjoyment of peace and plenty. 

Daniel Zollars, a brother of our subject, is now 
in his eighty-fifth year and 7nakes his home in 
Ottumwa, Iowa, where he celebrated his golden 
wedding in 1881. Another brother, Enoch Zollars, 
makes his home in Preston, Iowa, has been mar- 
ried sixty-two years, and has now attained his 
eightj'-second year. John Zollars was married to 
his first wife forty-three years when she died. His 
brother David resides in Canton, this State, and 
has lieen married thirty-six years. 

Our subject has for many years been prominently 
identified with the Stark Conntj- Agricultural 
Society and served as one of its Directors for some 
time. He has also held the position of Vice-pres- 
ident in that body. 

In social affairs, Mr. Zollars is an influential 
member of Perry Grange No. 694, at Massillon, 
and in that body has been Master and Deputy 
State Master of the lodge. He is a man of broad 
intelligence, not only in regard to matters connected 
with his chosen calling, but on all topics of general 
interest. As a citizen, he is reliable; in his busi- 
ness relations, honorable, and in his social and 
domestic life kindly and considerate. It is doubt- 
ful if Stark County contains an aged citizen more 
highly respected than our subject, and there are 
many who hope years will elapse before he shall be 
gathered to his fathers. 

Frederick Zollars, the deceased brother of our 
subject, was born in Pennsylvania, December 11, 
1801. He was a lad of twelve years when he ac- 
companied his parents on their removal to Hai-ri- 



164 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



son County, this State, where he made his home 
until 1832, and then took ui) his abode in Licking 
County. In 1868, he disposed of his interests in 
that section and removed to Macon, where were 
living several of his children. He was the father 
of eleven children, six of whom survive, b}"^ his 
marriage with Miss Anne Wliitmore, which occur- 
red November 27, 1823. The offspring at the 
present time numbers thirty-five grandchildren, 
thirty-four great-grandchildren, and one great- 
great-graudchild. Mr. Zollars, who was one of the 
oldest and most prominent citizens of Macon, died 
at his home March 13, 1890, leaving a large circle 
of friends and acquaintances to mourn his loss. 
He was a man of vigorous constitution and was 
very seldom sick until the infirmities of old age 
began to develop. He belonged to a family noted 
for their longevity', the aggregate ages of his five 
brothers and one sister being five hundred and 
thirteen years. He was a man of deep religious 
convictions and enjoyed the confidence and was 
well thought of by the entire community. He was 
married over sixty-three years. 






\\l At OB R. SCHLAGEL, Business Manager of 
the Daily and Weekly MassiHonian, was born 
in Keene, Coshocton County, Ohio, January* 
'J 9, 1863. a son of Christian jind Christine 
(Schweitzer) Schlagel, who were born in Stuttgart, 
Wurtemberg, German^-, and Philadelphia, Pa., re- 
spectivel}'. Christian Schlagel came to America 
when a young man, and located first at Albany, 
N. Y., and a few years later in Coshocton County, 
Ohio, where he first followed his trade of a miller, 
and later turned his attention to farming. He 
finally became a resident of Millersburgh, Holmes 
County, Ohio, but is now living in retirement at 
Easton, Ohio, at the age of seventy-eight years. 
He is an active Democrat, and a member of the 
Lutheran Church. His father was Superintendent 
of some twelve hundred acres of forest land in 



Germany which belonged to King William, and 
held this position for many years. He died when 
past ninety years of age. The maternal grand- 
father, Michael Schweitzer, was born in Germany, 
but when a young man came to the United States, 
and located near Philadelphia, where he worked at 
his trade of fancy carpet-weaving. At a later 
period, he removed to Coshocton County, Ohio, 
and, in addition to working at his trade, devoted 
considerable attention to fruit-growing. His daugh- 
ter, Mrs. Schlagel, is now sixty-six 3-ears of age. 

The subject of this sketch was reared in Coshoc- 
ton and Holmes Counties, Ohio, and obtained a 
fair education in the union schools near his home. 
At the age of fifteen years, he was apprenticed to 
a barber at Millersburgii, and at the end of two 
years was a thorough master of the trade. May 
30, 1880, he came to Massillon to fill a position as 
barber, and one year later started in business for 
himself on Erie Street, and finall_y opened an estab- 
lishment at the corner of Erie and Main Streets, 
which was the largest establishment of the kind in 
the city. He was a thorough master of the ton- 
sorial art, and his establishment was patronized by 
all the leading business men of the city. January 
1, 1890, he was one of the organizers of the Mas- 
sillon Printing and Publishing Company, and also 
established the MassiHonian, a dail^- and weekly- 
paper, of which he was citj' editor for seven 
months. He was then chosen Business Manager, 
Secretary and Treasurer, and for these positions 
has proven himself well qualified. The Massi/lo- 
nian is a bright and newsy sheet, is Democratic in 
its political sentiments and sympathies, and is 
published both daily and weeklj'. Besides the 
publication of the Ma»sHlonian, the office does a 
large amount of job work, and has every facility 
for turning out elegant work. Mr. Schlagel is one 
of the stockholders and Directors of the same. 

October 3, 1883, he was married to Miss Ada 
Sibila, who was born, reared and educated in Stark 
County, a daughter of the late John Sibila, a prom- 
inent old merchant of this place. They have two 
children, Ivan and John. Mr. Schlagel Is inter- 
ested in the political affairs of his section, and 
served two terms of two years each as a member of 
the City Council from the Second Ward, finishing 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



165 



his last term in 1891. He has passed all the chairs 
in the Knights of Pythias, and is also a member of 
the National Union. He is a prominent German- 
American citizen, Iteeps abreast with the progress 
of the times, and he has made a record for liimself 
in the annals of his adopted country .is nn able 
newspaper manager. 



^^+^1 



j^ Ql'lRE AVASHINGTON GUEST. To no 
^^^ cl.ass of her citizens is Stark County more 
\l^3) iii''*''Jted for her present standing and 
wealth than to her native-born sons, who 
long ago began to aid their sires in laying the 
solid foundation of enduring posterit}' and to-day 
are active in helping to extend her interests in 
various directions. Among these is our subject, 
who is one of the earliest-born within the borders 
of Stark County and who has become one of the 
principal farmers and stock-growers in Pike Town- 
ship, where he has a large and well-ordered farm. 
The birth of our subject occurred in tliis county, 
November 12, 1819. He is the son of Squire Pit- 
ney Guest, who was born in New Jersey, Septem- 
ber 19, 178.3. A distant ancestor of the family emi- 
grated to America when a young man and located in 
New Jersey, where he carried on his occupation of a 
farmer and was married. Pitney Guest followed 
the combined vocation of shoemaker and farmer, 
and February 14, 1812, made the journey across 
the mountains with a team and wagon to the Buck- 
eye State and was ranked among its pioneer set- 
tlers. He was poor in this world's goods and when 
locating here made his home for a time on school 
land, on section 16, Pike Township, where he re- 
sided for three years. He tlien entered eighty 
acres of land from the (iovernment. upon which he 
erected a rude log cabin and began the arduous 
task of clearing the tract from the timber. Indians 
and wild animals were very numerous and wolves 
often made night about the cabin hideous with 
their howls. 

The father of our subject was drafted into the 



War of 1812, but before being mustered into ser- 
vice peace was declared. Although not on the 
field of battle, he rendered his country efficient 
service b}' caring for soldiers who came to his 
home barefooted and often wounded and sick. He 
met a violent death August 9, 1856, when in his 
seventy-second year, by a runaway team. The lad^- 
whom he married bore the name of Catherine 
Miller; she was born in New Jersey, May 26, 1782, 
and became the mother of seven children, namely: 
Mary A., Jessie, Lydia, Hester, Jephtha, our sub- 
ject and Harriet, the two latter of whom are the 
only members surviving. The mother lived to an 
advanced age, and died January 29, 1874, at the 
age of ninet3'-three years. She was a member 
of the Baptist Church, in which congregation 
her husband preached for some time and aided 
materially in the establishment of the church 
in this community. He was a Whig politically 
and served as Justice of the Peace in Pike Town- 
ship for twenty-one years, being the first to hold 
that office. 

The maternal grandfather of our subject, Benj- 
amin Miller, was a native of Holland and on emi- 
grating to America made his home in New Jersey, 
where he met and married his wife. He came to 
this county with Pitney Guest in 1812, and made 
his home on section 16 of this township. He was 
a soldier in the Revolutionary War, serving 
through that entire struggle under Gen. Greene. 
He also was a member of the Baptist Church and 
died when in his seventieth year. 

He of whom we write was educated in the dis- 
trict schools and during the intervals of study- 
aided his father on the farm. At the early age of 
seventeen years, he began teaching school, and was 
thus engaged for eighteen winters, working on the 
farm during the summer season. AVhen ready to 
establish a home of his own, he was married, in 
1845, to Miss Ellen Collins, who was born in Tus- 
carawas Count}-, December 28, 1831, and to them 
have been eight children, namely: Osborn P.. 
Martha, Olive, Cora, Elmer. Katie .\., George W. 
and Ida. 

On the death of his father, our subject took 
cliarge of the old homestead, of which he is now 
the possessor. His property includes a quarter-sec- 



166 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



tion of excellent land, which, under the supervision 
of his eldest son, is made to blossom as the rose. 
Besides raising the cereals, he devotes considerable 
attention to breeding good grades of domestic 
animals. His good wife died February 14, 1878; 
she was a most estimable and intelligent lady and 
a member of the United Brethren Church. 

In his political relations, Mr. Guest is a true- 
blue Republican, and is a strong believer in the 
principles of protection as advocated by McKinley. 
He w.as elected Justice of the Peace in the fall of 
1870, and was the incumbent of the position for 
nine years. He was elected to serA'e as County 
Commissioner for three years and has been Town- 
ship Trustee for some time and Assessor for ten 
years. He has been an e}'e-witness of the marvel- 
ous growth of this section within tlie past few 
years and lias done his full share of hard pioneer 
work. He is one of the oldest settlers in this 
township and was one of the promoters of the 
Pike Township Mutual Insurance Company', which 
was organized in February, 1878. He was at that 
time elected its President and has held the position 
ever since. The company now extends over eight 
townships and carries about $2,000,000 in risks. 
Mr. Guest has not only won honor as a successful 
farmer and financier, but by reason of his character 
and long and useful labors holds a place in the es- 
teem of his fellow-citizens. 



*^^l 



'S^^AUL FIELD, who holds the position of 
\) Secretary of the Canton Water Works, of 
Canton, was born on the 4th of January, 
1842, in Akron, Summit County, Ohio. Lit- 
tle is known concerning the founding of the fam- 
ily in this country except that the Fields are of 
Welsh descent. The grandfather of our subject 
was Asa Field, and the father of Paul also bore 
the same name. The latter was a native of Ver- 
mont, and married Catherine Cady, who was born 
in Middlebury. of the Green Mountain State. He 
was a druggist, and for many years followed that 



business in Akron, Ohio, where be liad located in 
1835. He there continued to make his home until 
called to his final rest in 1866. The mother is still 
living and makes her home in TifHii, Ohio, witli 
a sister. 

Our subject is the eldest of the four living 
children born unto this worthy couple. He was 
educated in the cit3- schools and the High School 
of Akron, and his bovish days were quietly spent 
under the parental roof. He entered upon his 
business cai'cer as a clerk in the mills of Akron, 
and later obtained a position as engineer of a steam 
fire engine. Prompted by patriotic impulses, he 
donned the blue in 1862, and became a member of 
Company H, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio In- 
fantry. The regiment, commanded by Col. J. W. 
Riley, of Wellsville, Ohio, was sent to Kentucky, 
and thence to Eastern Tennessee. They then took 
part in the Georgia campaign, marching on to 
Jonesboro, after which the troops returned to 
Nashville and met Hood's army in i)attle. They 
afterward went to Ft. Fisher, N. C; then marched 
through that State and were present at the surrender 
of Johnson's army at Greensboro. Mr. Field re- 
mained in the service three years as a valiant 
defender of the old flag under which he had en- 
listed, and on the expiration of his term, received 
his discharge, in June, 1865. 

The country no longer needing his services, our 
subject then returned to his native city and entered 
a flouring mill, where he served as clerk. He also 
had charge of the fire engines of Akron for two 
years. It was in 1868 that Mr. Field came to 
Canton and took charge of the fire engines of this 
citj'. That position he filled for ten years, then 
became reporter on the Canton Repository one 
year, when he became connected with the Diebold 
Safe & Lock Companj-, of which he was shipping 
clerk for a year. In 1883, he received the appoint- 
ment of Secretary of the Canton Water Works, 
which position he has since filled, having entire 
charge of all the office work. 

In the year 1865, Mr. Field was married to 
Miss Fidelia, daughter of James McConnaughy, 
and a native of Pennsylvania. Their union was 
celebrated in Akron, and unto them has been born 
a daughter, Dora G., who is now a student in the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



167 



Business College of Canton. The family resides at 
No. 29 Lawrence Avenue. They have many friends 
in the community and rank higli in the social cir- 
cles in which they move. 

In his political affiliations, Mr. Field is a Demo- 
crat, and h.as been a member of the City Council. 
He was also elected Trustee of the Water Works, and 
so faithfully did he perform his duties that he re- 
ceived a re-election. Socially, he is a member of 
the Knights of Pythias and of Canton Post, G. A. R. 
For almost ten years, he has been Secretary of the 
Canton Water Works and his retention in office is 
a high testimonial to his ability and his fidelity to 
the duties of the position. 



\f|OSEPH GRAPEWINE, .in enterprising 
I and progressive citizen of Massillon, occu- 
^ I pies a responsible position as foreman of 
^f) Reed it Co.'s Glass Works. He was born 
in Camden, N. .L, JUI3' 7, 1849, and is a son 
of Edward Grapewine, who in turn was a son of 
Job (irapewiiie, also a native of that State and of 
English descent. The latter-named gentleman 
was occupied during his lifetime in manufacturing 
large clay pots, which were used in melting glass. 
lie was a patriot in the AVar of 1812, and occupied 
a prominent position in this communitj-. 

The father of our subject, who was a window- 
glass cutter in New Jersey, in 1854 removed to 
Pittsburgh, Pa., where he was similarly engaged. 
In 1870, however, he moved Westward and was 
engaged in farming and stock-raising in Clarence, 
Shelby County, Mo., where he is at present resid- 
ing. He was a strong Abolitionist and was prom- 
inent in the operations of the underground rail- 
way. He casts his political intlueiice at the pres- 
ent time with the Repuljlican p.^rty. 

Our subject's mother bore the maiden name of 
Sophia Griner, and was the daughter of Nicholas 
Griner, also a native of New Jersey. The latter 
was engaged in the manufacture of glass, and his 



father, who also bore the name of Nicholas, emi- 
grated from his native land, Holland, with the first 
glass-blowers who came to America, and established 
a factory in Boston and later in New Jerse}'. Our 
subject is the eldest in a family of eight children, 
six of whom are living, and was reared to mature 
j'ears in Pittsburgh, where he received his educa- 
tion in a night school. When nine years of .age, 
he began work in a glass factory, and was probably 
the youngest apprentice in that line of work. In 
1864, he enlisted in the Union arm3', and, at the 
expiration of his term of service, was mustered 
out on Governor's Island, N. Y., by special order 
of President Lincoln, who thought him too young 
to be in the army. 

When returning from the war, j'oung Grape- 
wine completed his trade, and in 1870 went into 
business for himself. Removing to Xenia, this 
State, he built the first tank-furnace in America, 
and remained in the glass business there for a 
twelvemonth. Then removing to Jamestown, he 
abandoned his trade, and for three terms served as 
City Marshal, and later was for six 3-ears detective 
for the Dayton Ar South Eastern and the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroads. In 1880, our subject came to 
Massillon and immediately- entered the employ of 
Reed & Co. Four years later, he went to AVelling- 
ton, this State, and built the AVellington Glass 
Factor^', of which he was President and Superin- 
tendent for two years. Disposing of his interests 
at the end of that time, he superintended and 
afterward managed the Minerva Glass Works of 
Minerva, Ohio, and a year later returned to this 
city and again entered the employ of Reed & Co. 

Mr. Grapewine has alwaj'S been very prominent 
in local affairs, and in 1886 was a candidate for 
nomination for Mayor on the Republican ticket, 
but was defeated by a small majority. He was 
favorably recommended by many of the prominent 
men of this State for the position of Commissioner 
of Labor Statistics, but failed to get it. In 1889, 
he purchased the AVavcrly House, at the corner of 
Railroad and Erie Streets, which he remodeled and 
operated as " mine host " for two years very suc- 
cessfully. He has since leased his hotel, and now 
devotes his time and attention to the duties of his 
position as foreman in a glass factory. Our sub- 



168 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ject, in 1889, was married to Mrs. Ella (Werling) 
McConnell, who is a native of this place, and by 
lier former marriage were born two children, 
Harvej- and Nellie. Mr. Grapewine by a previous 
marriage had one son, Eiswortli, who has been an 
actor since fifteen years of age. 

He of whom we write is a memlieruf the United 
Glass Works Association, of which organization 
lie has been Vice-president. He is also identified 
with the Trades of Labor Assembly, of which he 
was one of the organizers, and has always voted 
the straight Republican ticket in politics. He is 
an active worker in the ranks of that party, and 
for twenty-two years has served on the county 
committee, and has acted as delegate to county 
and State conventions. He is a Grand Array man, 
and as such is identified with the post in Welling- 
ton. 



■^AMES ROBERTSON. The gratifying suc- 
cess that has crowned the efforts of the life 
of our subject is the more noticeable and 
praiseworthy because of the few opportun- 
ities afforded liim in the earlier days for that train- 
ing and help which are sometimes considered ab- 
solutel}' indispensable for a start in life. In the 
case before us, Mr. Robertson is one of that worth j' 
class of whom many representatives are to be 
found in this county, and who are perhaps best 
designated by the term of self-made. 

Our subject is one of the prominent old settlers 
of this county, having beeo born in that part of 
Sandy Township which is now included in Car- 
I'oll County, September 22, 1821. He is the son 
of Dennj' Robertson, a native of Ireland, where he 
was reared and married. He, however, emigrated 
to America with his family in 1818, and located in 
Penns^'lvania where he remained for three .years, 
and then came overland to this county. He 
entered a tract of Government land in the wilder- 
ness, and at one time owned five hundred and 
sixty acres of valuable real estate. He was a hard 
worker, a good financier, and although wlien he 



came hither his worldly possessions were few, he 
became one of the wealthy and prominent resi- 
dents of his community. He died in his forty- 
sixth year, and w.as an active member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. The Whig party found in him 
an earnest advocate, and the people of his town- 
ship one who was always ready and willing to 
contribute lioth time and money toward its wel- 
fare. 

The mother of our subject, prior to her mar- 
riage, was Miss Ellen McConke3-, also a native of 
the Emerald Isle. She reared a family of seven 
children, viz: John, a mute, who was educated at 
Columbus; William, Margaiet, Robert and our 
subject (twins), David and Eliza .1. The wife and 
mother, who was also a consistent member of the 
Presbyterian Church, died at the early age of 
thirty-six years. 

James, of this sketch, remained on the farm with 
his parents until the death of his father, when he 
was teiken into the home of his uncle. Squire John 
Robertson, where he remained until reaching his 
sixteenth year. The educational privileges which 
lie eujo3-ed were very brief, being confined to at- 
tendance a short time at the pioneer log school- 
house near his home. Having worked out on dif- 
ferent farms by the month and year for some time, 
young Robertson was soon enabled to own prop- 
erty of his own, and in 1846 located on the farm 
where he still makes his home. 

December 2, 1847, James Robertson and Mar- 
garet Sickafoose, also a native of Sandy Township, 
were married. Their family of seven children are 
Denny S.; James H.,a lawyer of prominence in Can- 
ton; Andrew, Laura V., Eleanor, Maiy and Carrie. 
They also had three children who are deceased. 
On locating on his present farm, Mr. Robertson 
found only a log cabin and barn. He immediately 
commenced the work of improving, and now h.i* 
one of the finest estates in the county. He is en- 
gaged in mixed farming, and makes a specialty of 
breeding Clydesdale horses. Short-horn cattle and 
Merino sheep, from which brancli of agriculture 
he reaps a handsome income. Mr. Robertson 
erected his comfortable residence in 1853, and in 
1883 built a large barn. His estate includes four 
hundred and thirty acres of valuable land, which 




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i\fr >-'p-, , »«/( 



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Q^ J^l^t^a^ "k?^/^, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



171 



is embellished with the necessary outbuildings for 
the storage of machinery, grain and the shelter of 
stock. He has always been earnestly interested in 
the public good, and is known far and wide as a 
man of unswerving probit}', whose word is never 
doubted and wliose relations with his fellow-men 
are always of the most kindly nature. He is a 
stanch Republican in politics, and although in no 
sense an office-seeker, is interested in the welfare 
of the party in this section. 



—5- 



^>^^<l 



II. TUESSEL, M. 1)., a prominent pli>sician 
and surgeon of Alliance, has been engaged 
in practice in this cit}- since the spring of 

1874, and by his skill and ability has won 

an extensive and lucrative practice. He is well 
versed in everything pertaining to the science of 
medicine and surgery, keeps abreast with all the 
latest discoveries, and holds high rank among his 
professional brethren. 

The Doctor was born in Carroll County, Ohio, 
March 17, 1837. TheTressel family was originally 
of P>nglish origin, but some ancestors of our sub- 
ject tied as exiles from England to Germany, and 
thence came to America. The paternal grandfa- 
ther of our subject was born in England, and be- 
came an early settler of Pennsylvania. Tiie ma- 
ternal grandfather was an officer in the Revolu- 
tionary War and in the War of 1812, and tiie 
Doctor has the sword which be carried. The great- 
grandfather was a soldier in the regular army of 
German}', and after serving his term, the King 
sent for him to be one of his bod}- -guards, but 
this he refused to do, and was thus forced to Hee 
to America in order to save his life. With his fam- 
ily, he departed in the night, leaving all his prop- 
erty behind him except what he could carry. 
Through the influence of friends, he secured a 
vessel, and was under sail before daylight. He 
landed in Philadelphia, and located in Washing- 
ton County, Pa. The father of our subject fol- 
lowed the vocation of farming, was very success- 



ful, and became quite a prominent man. In an 
early day, he served as an officer in the militia. 
His death occurred in Carroll County, Ohio. 

The subject of this sketch was one of five sons 
and five daughters, six of whom are now living. 
He was reared on a farm, and attended the district 
schools. His father died when he was only thir- 
teen years of age, and, being the eldest in the fam- 
ily at home, he was compelled to remain on the 
farm and aid his mother in taking care of the chil- 
dren. Unselfishly he devoted his energies to this 
work until twenty-two years of age, when he en- 
tered Ml. Union College, from which he was grad- 
uated in 1859. In order to pa}' his tuition, he 
engaged in teaching through his vacations. He 
then began reading medicine with Dr. .S. F. Rook- 
enbrod, of Carroll County, Ohio, and at the same 
time was a teacher in Malvern Academy. 

In 1861, Dr. Tressel enrolled his nameasa mem- 
ber of Company A, Eightieth Ohio Infantry, and 
while on his way to enlist, he met with a serious 
accident. His horse became frightened and threw 
him and the buggy over an embankment, breaking 
his left leg. This prevented his entering the ser- 
vice for a time. In the winter of 1862, he entered 
the Western Reserve University of Cleveland, 
where he took his first course of medical lectures, 
and in the winter of 186-3 was graduated from that 
college. It was his intention to locate at Malvern, 
but instead he went to Cincinnati, was examined 
and sent to Paducali, Ky., where he was on de- 
tached service. The day previous to the battle, he 
was sent to Pittsburgh Landing. He was present 
at the battles of Corinth and luka, and followed 
the Eightieth Ohio Regiment to Ripley, but the 
city was evacuated before their arrival. The Doc- 
tor was next ordered to Louisville, thence to Leb- 
anon and Perryville, at which latter place he was 
again severely injured and was granted a six- 
months furlough. He afterward returned to the 
service, and was with the L^nited States Sanitary 
Commission under Dr. Prentiss, with whom he re- 
mained until the close of the war, doing all the 
good possible for the sick and wounded. 

Dr. Tressel was married, in 1860, to Miss Susan- 
nah T. Hawkins, of Mahoning County, Ohio. 
Unto them have been born three children: Lora II., 



172 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Gertrude 11. and John K. Mrs. Tressel is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcoiial Church, is Secre- 
tary of the Foreign Missionary Societj^ and Pres- 
dent of the Home Aid Society. A benevolentand 
most estimable hidy, she is held in high regard by 
all. 

During the war, the Doctor had charge of a num- 
ber of hospitals, and at its close lie visited some of 
the largest hospitals in this country, thus obtain- 
ing an excellent knowledge of surgery, of which 
he makes a specialty. lie is now Secretary of the 
Board of the United States Pension Examiners, 
surgeon for the Pennsylvania; the Pittsburgh, Ft. 
Wayne & Chicago; and the Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
Railroads, to which positions he was appointed in 
1875. He is also surgeon for the Alliance, Niles 
& Ashtabula Railroad, and holds the position of 
Assistant Secretary of the National Association of 
Railwaj' Surgeons. He is a member of the Stark 
County, the Northeastern Ohio State, the Ameri- 
can Medical Society, the Pennsylvania Surgical 
Association, and the Ohio Sanitary Association. 
Fraternally, he belongs to the Knights of Pytliias 
and the Odd Fellows' society. As a physician. Dr. 
Tressel has attained prominence, and is ranked 
among the valued citizens of Stark County. 



'if|ACOB L. KELLER. Prominent in agricul- 
I tural circles in Bethlehem Township, and 
well known throughout the entiie country, 
_ Mr. Keller has won the esteem of his asso- 
ciates and the respect of all with whom he comes 
in contact. He is the owner of a good estate, com- 
prising seventy-six acres of land located on sec- 
tion 11, upon which man}' improvements have 
been introduced and changes effected, whereby the 
value of the land has been considerably increased. 
The original of this sketch was born in Franklin 
County, Pa., December 16, 1826, and is the son 
of Frederick and Polly (Lowry) Keller, natives of 
Pennsylvania. He received a good practical edu- 
cation in the Schools of his native State, where he 



was reared to manhood, and when starting out in 
life for himself, chose the occupation of a farmer, 
which pursuit he has since followed with signal 
success. In the spring of 1849, in company with 
his parents, young Keller emigrated to Stark 
County, this State, the journey being made over- 
land and consuming fourteen days. Our sub- 
ject drove a four-horse team on that eventful 
trip, and can relate many an interesting tale of 
how they cooked and camped by the wayside. It 
will be seen that he was thoroughly competent to 
undertake the management of the teams, as for 
eight years he was engaged in driving a six-horse 
team between Baltimore and Pittsl)urgli, sometimes 
going as far as Wheeling. 

On arriving in this county, the family of our 
subject settled in Perry Township, and after a 
residence there of sixteen years the parents moved 
farther West to Allen Count}', Ind. He of whom 
we write established a home of his own in the 
year 1849, at which time he married Miss Eliza- 
beth Fagan, also a native of the Keystone State, 
and a most estimable lady. To tliem was born a 
family of seven children, only three of whom are 
living, namely: Harrison; Martha E., Mrs. William 
Steiner, and Eugenia, the wife of Joseph Bordner. 
The wife and mother departed this life in 1860, 
and the lady whom Mr. Keller chose for his second 
companion, June 3, 1861, bore the name of 
Jane Kalhofner. By that union were also born 
seven children, only three of whom survive, Gor- 
don E., Jacob R. and Leocomton. 

Shortly after the close of the Civil War, our 
subject located on the farm where he is at present 
residing. The property is highly improved, its 
appointments are of the best class and its owner 
devotes his time and attention to general farming. 
He has always 'been very active in educational 
affairs and served for several terms as School Di- 
rector; during his administration many improve- 
ments were made in the school system and build- 
ings. He is a firm adherent of the Republican 
party in politics, and in favor of every measure 
wliich has for its f)bject the upbuilding of his 
adopted count}'. 

The wife of our subject is a native of Alsace, 
France, and is the daughter of Michael and Martha 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



173 



Kalhofrier. She accompanied her parents on their 
emigration to America, at which time she was 
eight years of age. The_y came immediately to 
this county and took up their residence in Betli- 
lehem Township, witli wliose interests they were 
actively identified for many ye.ars. Mr. and Mrs. 
Keller have a ple.isant home and have formed an 
extensive acquaintance in this locality, and tiieir 
many excellencies of character have won them 
high regard. 



»^ 



' ACOB SNIVEL Y. For some yeais the late 
Jacob Snively was connected with the agri- 
cultural interests of Stark Count3', owning 
and operating a large farm in Perry Town- 
ship. Like many of the prominent residents of this 
.section, he was born in this county, February 4, 

1820, and was the son of Joseph and Catherine 
Snively, who hailed from Pennsylvania. 

In an early day, the parents of our subject (;anie 
to this county, and made their home in a log cabin 
in the woods of Perry Town.ship, There Jacob of 
this sketch was reared upon the farm, learned tiie 
lessons of self-reliance and became well acquainted 
with all that pertains to an agricultural life. His 
educational privileges were limited to the common 
schools, and being a vigorous young man, anxious 
and willing to labor, he rendered his father great 
service in helping to cultivate the home farm. 

Mr. Snively was married September 16, 18-10, to 
Miss Mary A. Shreffler, who was born October 6, 

1821, in Dauphin County, Pa. This lady was 
the daughter of Conrad and Catherine (Bord- 
ner) Shreffler, who were also natives of the Key- 
stone State. In 1839, Mrs. Snively accompanied 
her parents on their removal to this county, where 
she met and married our subject. To them was 
granted a family of nine children, only three of 
whom are living: Mahlon J.; Catherine E., Mrs. 
Cornelius llousli; and Pius D. The elder son. 
who married Miss Wise, has two children. Earl and 



Vernie. Pius D., who is also married, has two 
children. Homer and Clara. The family of Mrs. 
Roush comprises three daughters and one son: Mel- 
lie, Lizzie, Jason and Kitty. JNIahala A., deceased, 
left two children, EHie E. and Homer J. Smith. 

In politics, Mr. Snively was a Democrat, and a 
devoted member of the United Brethren Church, 
contributing liberally to its support, and to all 
things that would in any way better the standing 
of the city or advance its material prosperity. In 
his death, which oocurred March 10, 1885, Stark 
County lost one of its progressive and intelligent 
citizens. His widow, who since his death has at- 
tended to the operations of the farm, has demon- 
strated her abilities in business affairs, and has in- 
Creased the value of the property by further im- 
provements. The estate comprises two hundred and 
forty-three acres of land, on which are a fine farm 
residence, commodious barns and the numerous 
outbuilding which prove it to be in the pos.ses- 
sion of people of enterprise and means. Mrs. 
Snivel}' is a member of the United Brethren Church, 
is honored and respected throughout the commu- 
nity, and in her own unassuming way bears a part 
in all the good works that are projected in the vi- 
cinity. 



^^ 



iDCAR J. MARCH, M. D., since the year 
18H8, has devoted his life to the highest 
temporal mission among men, a combat 
with disease and death, and his efficiency, skill 
and signal success In this calling are already well 
known. He is a native of Stark County, Ohio, 
born in New Franklin, Paris Townshij), on the 
24tli of January, 1858, and is a son of Henrj' 
C. March, who was born in Columbiana Countj-, 
Ohio, in 1832. 

The elder Mr. March was reared in his native 
county, and in 1862 he enlisted in the service of his 
country, being promoted to the rank of First Lieu- 
tenant of his company, the One Hundred and Fif- 
teenth Ohio Infantry, and taking part in many 



174 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of the prominent engagements of his regiment, 

serving faitlifnlly for three years, or until 1865, 
when lie was mustered out with the rank of Cap- 
tain. Returning to his native county, he was en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits for a time, but for 
the past fifteen years has been Clerk in llie United 
States Treasury at AVashington, D. C. His wife, 
whose maiden name was Sarah J. McLaughlin, was 
a native of Columbiana County. Ohio, and the 
daughter of E. McLaughlin. Slie now resides at 
Alliance, Ohio. 

The original of this notice received his educa- 
tion in the school of Nevv Franklin, and remained 
in his native county until sixteen years of age, 
when lie entered the High School of Marysville, 
Ohio, pursuing his studies for several terms. Af- 
terward he t^aught school one term and then en- 
tered Mt. I'nion College, alternately teaching and 
attending school until he was graduated in 1881. 
After this, he became Principal of the High School 
at Hubbard, Ohio, which position he held one 
voar, at the same time reading medicine. He sub- 
sequently entered the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons at Baltimore, Md., and received his di- 
ploma from that institution in 1884. He com- 
menced practicing at Nashville, Holmes Count}', 
Ohio, remained there three years and a half, and 
then went to New York City, where he took a post- 
graduate course in the New York Polyclinic, grad- 
uating in 1888. 

From there he came direct to Canton, where he 
has since conducted a large and lucrative practice, 
giving special attention to surgery and the diseases 
of women, and has been absorbed da}' and night 
in a profession which is perhaps the most trying 
on brain and body of any in the field of science. 
He seems to have a decided taste and natural apti- 
tude for his profession, and he has won the entire 
confidence of all. The Doctor is a member of the 
visiting staff of Aultman Hospital at Canton, is a 
member of the Union Medical Association of 
Northeast Ohio, the Stark County Academy of 
Medicine, and the Ohio State Medical Society, and 
is widely known. 

In the month of May, 1882, the Doctor was 
married to Miss Carrie Hughes, of Holmes County, 
Ohio, daughter of John S. Hughes. Two in- 



teresting children have been given them. The 
Doctor is a prominent Mason, a member of Can- 
ton Lodge No. 60, and is also a member of the 
Knights of Honor, thus showing his appreciation 
of secret organizations. He is active in benevolent 
and charitable enter()rises, strong in his friendship, 
and brave in his defense of the right. By his 
frank and kindly deportment he has found many 
friends and admirers. He has a pleasant and 
attractive residence at No. 60 South Cleveland 
Avenue, his office being at the same place. 



•S"irS!IS^X^^''0 



w 



it^i..i^ii^#i^ 



ILLIAM E. GROFF, 1). V. S. The name 
of Groff is one of the most influential in 
W^ Massillon. and one of the most respected 
in this community. The father of our subject. 
Dr. F. Z. Groff, who is professor of the Veterinary 
Inflrmaiy of JMassillon, and who, with his son. un- 
der the firm title of Dr. F. Z. Groff & Son. is en- 
gaged in a verj' lucrative practice, was born in the 
grand old State of Pennsylvania, near Lancaster. 
He was reared to the duties of the farm in his na- 
tive State, his father being a successful agricultur- 
ist, and when still but a boy was brought to Stark 
County, Ohio, by his parents. They settled four 
miles west of Massillon, and there passed the re- 
mainder of their days. Dr. F. Z. Groff grew to 
manhood on the farm, and at an early age evinced 
a strong desire to become a veterinary surgeon. 
He entered the Ontario Veterinary College at 
Toronto, and graduated at that institution in 
1880, after which he returned to Stark Count}- 
and has been actively engaged in his practice ever 
since. He is a self-made man, and all he has made 
in the way of this world's goods has been the result 
of his perseverance, ability and thoroughness. He 
is senior member of the above-mentioned firm and 
is now a resident of Sippo, Ohio. His wife, whose 
maiden name was Julia Caldwell, was born in Sen- 
eca County, Ohio, and her father, John Caldwell, 
was born in Penns}lvania and was a blacksmith 
by trade. Mr. Caldwell followed his trade in his 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



17f) 



native State for some time, but finally moved to 
this county and still continues his former occupa- 
tion. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Kroff and our subject was the eldest. 

He was reared in Stark County, principally at 
Sippo, received his education in the districtschools, 
and began the study of veterinary surgery under 
his father when seventeen years of age, although 
before that he had a pretty good idea of that 
branch. Wiien eighteen years of age, he began 
practicing alone, and in 1887 he came to Massillon, 
where he practiced until 1888. After this he en- 
tered the American Veterinary College of New York 
City, remained in that institution, and was grad- 
uated in 1890 with the degree of D. V. S. Dur- 
ing this time, he thought seriously of starting a 
Veterinary Infirmary in Massillon, and after re- 
turning to this town he began carrying out his 
ideas. The same year he started a Veterinary In- 
firmary in partnership with his father and erected 
a large two-story building for that purpose on 
North Street, between Erie and Mill Streets, .SOxfiO 
feet. This firm can accommodate about twenty 
horses, and in a fine pharmacy adjoining theollice 
they prepare their own medicine. They have a 
very large practice and are thoroughly familiar 
with tlieir business. Our subject is a member of 
the Alumni Association of New York City, and is 
also a member of the order of Mechanics and the 
Knights of Pythias. In politics, lie is a Repub- 
lican. 



_y 



,Tn^jEV. SIMON PETER LONG, A. B., A. M., 
|L#ir pastor of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran 
i4i \V Church, is a native of Ohio, born in McZena^ 
Ashland County, on the 7th of October, 
1860. He is a very ])opular young minister, is 
highly respected by all classes in general, and is 
evidently deeitly interested in the noble win-k in 
which he is engaged. 

His grandfather, .lohn (jeorge Long, was born 
in Germany and in that country followed the use- 



ful and independent life of a tiller of the soil. In 
1828, he brought his family to America and located 
ne.'ir Canal Eulton. Oiiio was in its young daj's, and 
schools and culture had not yet reached that point 
where a flnisiied education was the rule and expec- 
tation of the great mass of the yoiitii as now. 
The freedom of pioneer life was around him, and 
he immediately purchased a wild farm and began 
developing the same. A substantial log house was 
erected and there he and his fauiily resided for 
some time. From there they removed to McZena 
and purchased another farm which Mr. Long be- 
gan to improve and cultivate. He had one 
brother and one sister; the brother Peter came to 
this country and became a prosperous farmer 
the family owning over two thousand acres of 
fine land. Peter is still living and is eighty-five 
years of age. At the last reunion, in 1891, he 
had the pleasure of meeting one hundred and 
twenty persons who bore the name of Long. 
Grandfather Long became a Democrat in his poli- 
tical views, antl was a devout member of the 
Lutheran Church. He passed the remainder of 
his days in the Buckeye State, and died in 1868, 
honored and respected by all. When he crossed 
the ocean to America, his family consisted of his 
wife and two children, one of whom, (ieorge, be- 
came the father of our subject. 

George Long was born in the Fatiierland, in 
Alsace, and was but six years of age when he came 
with his parents to this countiy. He was reared 
amid the rude scenes of pioneer life, and there 
learned the lessons of self-reliance, courage and 
responsibility from the out-door environments of 
his day and neighborhood. He received a fair 
education in the German language, and after 
reaching man's estate he purchased a farm of one 
hundred and sixty acres adjoining the village of 
McZena, where he followed farming for many 
years. He is now retired from the active duties 
of life, but still owns his fine farm, which he in- 
creased from one hundred and sixt}' to two hun- 
dred acres. He is an active and prominent mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church and has been Deacon 
in liie same for thirty years. He married Miss 
Margaret Merkling, a native of Alsace, Germany, 
whc) bore him .seven children, five of whom are 



176 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



living, four sons and one daughter. The mother 

passed away on the 14 th of February, 1881. 

Rev. Simon P. Long, the youngest of the above- 
mentioned children, was reared at McZena, Ohio, 
was fairlj' educated in the schools of that town, 
and when fourteen years of age was apprenticed 
to the shoemaker's trade at Perrysville. In con- 
nection he attended Grcentown Academj-, under 
Prof. J. C. Sample, for three years, and there laid 
the foundation for his subsequent prosperous career. 
After working as journejanan for some time, he 
gave up his trade and in 1879 entered the univer- 
sity at Columbus, at which institution he was grad- 
uated with the degree of A. B. in 1883. Tiiree 
years later, he received the degree of A. M. In 
the fall of 1883, he entered the Theological Semin- 
ary at Columbus, attended one year and then 
attended the Theological Seminary at Philadelphia 
for a year. In addition, he also took the even- 
ing course at Shoemaker's Oratorical College. 
Returning, he entered the Theological Seminary at 
Columlnis and was graduated in 188(). After this, 
he was called to his old home and ordained and in- 
stalled as pastor of Zion Lutheran Church at 
Loudon ville. where he had attended in his youth. 
Tliere he remained until the fall of 1889, when he 
received a call from Massillon, which he accepted, 
and moved to this city in August of the same year. 
Since then he has organized a parochial school, 
which is now in a flourishing condition. There 
are one hundred and three pupils and two in- 
structois. During this year a second Lutheran 
Church, called the Faith Lutheran, has been built 
and dedicated on the West Side, our subject or- 
ganizing its congregation. The day of the dedica- 
tion of this church not a cent had beeij i)aid, but 
in just seventy minutes the entire debt was paid. 
He first began tliis as a Sunday-school. Mr. 
Long's church has a membership of five hundred, 
and aside from his ministeral duties here he lec- 
tures throughout the Stale and in Pennsylvania, 
taking about two nights in a week. 

Our subject was married in Columbus, Ohio, on 
the 12th of May. 1887, to Alice, a daughter of Elijah 
Marion, a prominent farmer of Franklin County, 
who was originally from Scotland. Mrs. Long 
was born in the city of Columbus, this State. 



Three children have been born to this union, Mar- 
garet and Clara, and ALary, who is deceased. Mr. 
Long is a member of the joint synod of Ohio, is in- 
dependent in his political views, and is a strong- 
temperance man. He was deeply interested in or- 
ganizing the Old P'olks' Home which was located 
at Allegheny. Pa. Since he came to Massillon 
he has cleared the church of debt, has organized 
the Library Society and founded a library here, and 
has been active in all other good work. He has 
been consideral)le of a traveler and has been in 
all but three or four of the States. Mr. Long is 
deeply interested in his work and possesses excel- 
lent qualities as a man of education and refine- 
ment. 



I^+^I 



ILLIAM SHAFFER. The gentleman of 
whom we write has his fine arable farm of 
W^ one hundred and thirty-eight acres situ- 
ated on section 14, Nimishillcn Township. He 
was born in Washington Township, Stark County, 
Ohio. November 18. 1839, to John and Margaret 
(Cairns) Shaffer, the former of whom was born in 
the same township as the subject of this sketch, 
and the latter in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. When 
a girl, she came with her parents to America, and 
with them settled in Washington Township. Stark 
County, Ohio, where she met and married Mr. 
Shaffer. The latter was a son of William Shaffer, 
who was a Pennsvlvanian, but who came to Ohio 
at a very early day, and was a well-to-do farmer 
of this section for the remainder of hisd.ays. John 
Sh.affer wiis the father of five children, of whom 
William was the eldest, and after a well-spent life, 
and while just in the zenith of his career, he was 
called from the scene of hisearthlj- labors, in 1866, 
at the age of forty-seven years. His widow sur- 
vived him until January, 1890. dying at the age 
of seventy-four years, and both lie buried in the 
Hbmewortli Cemetery, Columbiana County, about 
six miles from their old home. They were Pres- 
byterians in their religious views, and throughout 



PORTRAIT AXD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



177 



life the father was a Democrat politically, and, al- 
though not a politician, he held the office of Town- 
ship Trustee two or three terms. Although his 
advantages for an education in youth were limited, 
he was a friend of education and gave each of his 
children good common-school educations. 

William Shaffer passed an uneventful boyhood 
in assisting his father on the farm and in attend- 
ing the district school, but not being satisfied with 
the advantages that the district schools afforded 
him, he entered the public schools of Canfield, 
Malioning County, which he attended for some 
time, and wliere his love of study and reading made 
him improve his advantages to tlie utmost. At 
the age of nineteen j'ears, he began teacliing school, 
and until 1865 his winters were devoted to this 
occupation, while his summers were spent in till- 
ing the soil. March 23, 1865, Miss Lj'dia Trump, 
of Nimishillen Township, became his wife. She 
was born Apiil 16, 1841, to Peter and Catherine 
(Shaffer) Trump, and the same year of their mar- 
riage they settled on a farm of sixty-eight acres, 
which is a portion of the farm of which they are 
now the owners. The house in which they are 
living was one of tlie improvements of the place 
at the time of their purchase, as well as other 
buildings. Mr. Shaffer has a good bank barn, 
which at tlie time of its erection cost $1,700. 
Since his first purchase, Mr. Shaffer has added sev- 
enty acres to his original tract, all of which is well 
improved and well watered by living springs. 

Politically, Mr. Shaffer is a Democrat, and has 
filled the following township offices: Clerk two 
terms, Trustee two terms and Justice of the Peace 
two terms. He also held the position of Notary 
Public for a number of years. In 1889, he was 
elected a Director of the County- Infirmary, in 
which position, as in all others, lie proved himself 
competent, trustworth}' and intelligent. He and 
his wife and a number of their children are mem- 
bers of the Reformed Church of Louisville. To 
himself and wife nine children have ijeen given, 
all of whom are living: Ida J., born January 22, 
1867, became the wife of John P. Lawman, Sep- 
tember 17, 1885, and is a resident of Ottawa 
County, Kan., where her husband is engaged in 
tilling the soil. She has one child. Ella, born 



January 11, 1869, is a successful and well-known 
teacher of Stark County; Lillie, born May 14, 
1870, married Amos Raniseyer February 12, 1890, 
and is' residing on a farm in Paris Township; 
Charles, born July 30, 1871, attended one term of 
school at Middle Point, Ohio, and is now engaged 
in teaching his third term of school; Ada, born 
October 4, 1872, lives at home; Clara Lucetta, born 
October 6, 1874, has also a certificate for teaching; 
Elmer, born August 5, 1876: Xettie.July 14, 1879, 
and Roy Thurman, Maich 14, 1885. 

Mr. Shaffer is popular, and deservedly' so, for he 
has always proved honest, and in a high degree 
public-spirited. 



'Jj EVI W. WELLS, Manager of the Canton 
'II (@ ^^^^ Light & Coke Company, is a native of 
/l—^v, the Province of New Brunswick, born De- 
cember 30, 1847. His parents, John C. and Rebecca 
(Calhoun) Wells, natives of the same province in 
which he was born, were residents of Boston, Mass., 
for a few years, but returned to their native land, 
where the father passed to his final rest. By occu- 
pation he was a contractor and carpenter, and was 
an honorable, industrious man, whose position in 
the community was an influential one. The mother 
is yet living, and makes her home in New Bruns- 
wick. They were the parents of eight children, 
six sons and two daughters. 

Until he was nineteen j-ears of age, the subject 
of this sketch resided in New Brunswick, wliere he 
was for a time a pupil in the schools, and also 
learned the carpenter's trade with his father. In 
1864, he came to the United States, and located in 
Boston, where he worked at his trade during one 
summer. Afterward he made a specialt}' of stair- 
building for a year or more, and was quite success- 
ful while thus engaged. He next entered the 
emplo3- of the South Boston Gas Light Company 
in order to secure points about that business, his 
father-in-law, Edward Jones, being engineer of the 
organization. 



178 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Subsequently, Mr. Wells removed to Marblehead, 
Mass., where he was Superintendent of the Gas 
Companj- for ten years, and while a resident of 
that place made many warm friends both in busi- 
ness and social circles. He next went to Roxbury, 
Mass., where he was Assistant Superintendent of 
the Gas Company for seven j'ears. January 23, 
1891, he came to Canton, being called to this place 
to take the management of the Canton Gas Light 
& Coke Company, which position lie is now filling 
to the satisfaction of all concerned and with great 
credit to himself. 

A very important event in the life of Mr. Wells 
was his marriage, which occurred .June 22, 1867, 
when Miss Sarepta A. .Jones became his wife. Mrs. 
Wells is a most estimable and refined ladj', and 
was reared to womanhood in Boston, though her 
native city was Chelsea. Her parents moved to 
Boston when she was about a year old. One child 
has blessed the home of our subject .and his wife, 
L. W., Jr. In his social connections, Mr. Jones is 
actively connected with the Royal Arcanum and 
the American Legion of Honor, in which organi- 
zations he is influential and prominent. 



ylLLIAM ARCHINAL. i:very city in the 
United States, eitlier from its geographical 
position, or from some peculiar natural 
advantages, has some specialty attracting the at- 
tention of its business men. The development of 
these advantages, whether their tendency is towards 
transportation, commerce or manufacturing, has in 
many instances proven the corner stone on which 
a magnificent mercantile prosperity has been 
erected. The only feature ever wanting to bring 
about this result, to form, as it were, the keystone, 
to render certain, symmetrical and complete the 
arch of their possible commercial prominence, has 
been the enterprise of their business men, the fore- 
sight to forecast the possibilities of the future, and 
courage siifBcient to utilize them. Canton has 



indeed vied successfully with the business men of 
other cities, and now stands well in the van, owing 
to the determined stand taken by her men of en- 
terprise and public spirit. Prominent among them 
stands the name of William Archinal. 

Mr.. Archinal was born in Germany on the 3d of 
June, 1840, and is a son of Louis and Margaret 
(Reclit) Archinal, also natives of the Fatherland. 
The father w.as a soldier in the German army for 
twenty-five years and was subsequently Sheriff for 
some time. He spent most of his life in military 
service and died in the Old Country. Our subject 
never experienced the loving and tender care of a 
mother, for she died when he w.asan infant. Until 
fourteen years of .age, he was educated in his na- 
tive country, and afterward learned the cabinet- 
maker's trade, traveling as a journeyman for some 
time. Tempted b}' very favorable reports from 
the New AVorld, he decided to m.ake a permanent 
home in America, and for that purpose crossed the 
ocean in 1860. He landed at Baltimore, Md., and 
went from there to Canal Dover, Ohio. 

In August, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, 
Thirtieth Ohio Infantry, under Capt. George H. 
Hildt, and was sent to AVest Virginia, where he 
remained four months. His regiment was then 
assigned to Burnside's division, and he participated 
in the battles of .South Mountain, Antietain and the 
second Bull Run. The command then went into 
quarters. The following spring it was sent to 
Vicksburg, took part in that siege, and our sub- 
ject was there taken prisoner on tlie 22d of May, 
while assaulting its works. He was paroled the 
following day, and was sent across the river, where 
he took a leave of absence for four months. At the 
expiration of that time, he was exchanged and 
returned to his regiment, which was then at Mis- 
sionary Ridge. He took part in the Atlanta cam- 
paign, Sherman's march through the Carolinas, on 
to Washington, and took part in the Grand Re- 
view. He was then ordered to Little Rock, Ark., 
and was mustert-d out at that place in .Vugust, 
1865. 

Returning to Canal Dover, he soon after entered 
the employ of Russell & Co., of Massillon, Ohio, 
manufacturers of reapers, and continued with them 
until 1868, when he moved to Canton. He was 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



181 



here employed by C. Aultman & Co. in tbe wood 
department, and in 1880 be was promoted to the 
position of foreman of that department. That 
position lie held until 1886, when he was ap- 
pointed Postmaster of the city of Canton by Pres- 
ident Cleveland, and seived in that capacity for 
four years, to the entire satisfaction of all. Re- 
tiring from the postofflce, he became connected 
with the stove business, and in company with 
others organized the Canton Stove Company. 

In 186(>, Mr. Archinal mairied Miss Catherine 
Eicher, of Richville, Ohio, daughter of Jacob 
Eicher. To this union have been born five chil- 
dren, four sons .and one daughter, who are as 
follows: Harry L., a clerk with the Canton Hard- 
ware Company; Charles W., draughtsman in the 
Canton Wrought Iron Bridge Comi)any; Minnie 
M.; Frank O., draughtsm.an with the Wrought 
Iron Bridge Company; and William H., attending 
the High Schools of Canton. Mr. Archinal has a 
very pleasant and attractive home at No. 15 East 
Tenth Street. He has been a member of the City 
Council, also of the Board of Education. He is a 
member of the Masonic lodge, having attained 
the Knight Templar degree. 



JAMES FRAUNFELTEU, M. 1)., has been en- 
gaged in medical practice in Canton for ten 
years, and is one of the leading physicians 
of Stark County. He was born in Ashland 
County, Ohio, near the city of Ashland, June 6, 
1846, and is the youngest of four sous in a family 
of eleven children, whose parents were .John and 
Elizabeth (Ree.ser) Fraunfelter. His parents were 
of German lineage, but were both born and reared 
in Nortiiampton County, Pa., where their marriage 
was also celebrated. In 1846, they left the Kej'- 
stone State and came to Ohio, locating in Ash- 
land County, where the father followed farming. 
He was killed by the falling of a tree winch he was 
cutting down. His wife died in 1869. 

The Doctor spent his boyhood days in liis na- 



tive county, and acquired his early education in 
the common district schools. He remained under 
the parental roof until eighteen years of age, when 
he became a student in the Vermillion Institute at 
Hayesville, Ohio, for a year. Tlie following winter 
he engaged in te.aching, and afterward attended the 
Savannah Academy, in A.shiand County, during the 
summer months for a period of six years, while 
in the winter he taught school. While attending 
this academy, he was also engaged as a tutor. 
AVisliing to make the practice of medicine his life 
work, he began studying with Dr. T. S. Hunter, of 
Ashland, and took his first course of lectures in 
the Cincinnati College Of Medicine and Surgery. 
He attended his second course of lectures in the 
Long Island College Hospital of New York, from 
which he w.as graduated in 1871, and in 1872 he 
was graduated from tlie Jefferson Medical College 
of Philadelphia, after pursuing a third course of 
lectures. 

Dr. Fraunfelter entered upon the practice of his 
profession in Canal Fulton, where he remained un- 
til 1881, when he took a post-graduate course in 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New 
York. He then came to Canton, where he has since 
made his home, devoting his energies to private 
practice. He now has a liberal patronage and en- 
jo.ys a lucrative and constantly increasing business. 
He does a general practice, but makes a specialty 
of the surgical dise.ases of vvomen. 

In 1872, the Doctor was united in marriage with 
Miss Kate Roseberry, of Ashland, daughter of Rev. 
P. R. Roseberry. They have one son, Clare E. 
Their home, which was erected in 1882, is a com- 
modious, fine brick residence, of the most modern 
style of architecture, and supplied with all modern 
conveniences. It is situated at No. 83 South Mar- 
ket Street, and is the abode of hospitality. 

Dr. Fraunfelter is a member of the American 
Medical Society-, the Ohio State Medical .Societj-, 
the Union Medical Society of Northeastern Ohio, 
of which he is President, and of the Stark County 
Academy of Medicine. He is also a member of the 
State Sanitary Society, and is Vice-president of 
the Harvard Compan}', which manufactures surgi- 
cal and dental chairs. He was appointed United 
States Pension Examiner bj' President Harri.son, 



182 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



witli licadquaitors at Alliance, but resigned on ac- 
count of press of business at home. He was one of 
the incorporators of the Aultman Hospital, and was 
elected one of the Trustees and Consulting Surgeon 
of the same, which position he still holds. He is 
surgeon for the Canton Street Railway Company 
and a number of accident societies, beside medical 
examiner for several life insurance organizations. 
The doctor keeps well abreast with all discoveries 
connected with his profession, and is a close stu- 
dent along this line. Ho i-anks high among his 
[irofessional brethren, and the liberal patronage 
which he receives attests his abilitv- 






\li-^ ON. JOHN McBRIDE, President of the 
iT )# United Mine Works of America, and editor 
/^j^ of the Miners' Independent at Massillon, was 
(^) born in Chippewa Township, Wayne 
County, Ohio, June 25, 18.54. His father, Thomas 
McBride, was a native of Carlisle, England, and 
when twelve years old left home as a sailor on a 
merchant vessel en route for the East Indies. Dur- 
ing his three-years cruise, he visited the principal 
ports of the world, and sailed on almost every sea, 
gaining a practical experience which was invaluable 
to him in his after career. 

In 1850, Thomas IVIcBiide came to Ohio and set- 
tled in Chippewa Township, Wayne County, where 
he engaged in mining for a few months. Thence 
he came to IMassiUon as Superintendent of the 
Bin-ton, Ridgeway it Co. Mines at this place, and 
remained in that connection until, ceasing from 
active labor, he retired from his business interests. 
His death occuried near this citj^ in 1874, and was 
sincerely mourned by his large circle of friends. 
In his political belief, he was a Republican and a 
strong Abolitionist. His religious home was in the 
Catholic Church. His wife, whose maiden name 
was Bridget MclMackin, was born in Carlisle, Eng- 
land, was of Irish descent, and died in 1863. 

Of the nine children in the parental family who 
grew to mature years, four still survive, our sub- 



ject being the next to the youngest The two eld- 
est sons served in the Civil War as members of an 
Ohio regiment, and now reside, Edward in Central 
Ame.ica and William in Idaho. John was only six 
j'ears old when he accompanied his parents to 
Stark County, where for a few years he was a pupil 
in the common schools. When about eleven years 
old, he became self-supporting, and his first em- 
ployment was as water-boy in the mines. From 
that humble beginning he arose to positions of 
usefulness and trust, and soon acquired prominence 
among the miners. 

In 1872, Mr. McBride juinod the Labor Union, 
and was chosen Secretary of Lodge No. 15, 
M. L. B. A. Two years later, he became a Knight 
of Labor, and in 1877 was elected District Presi- 
dent of the Tuscaraw;is Valley Miners' Association, 
having a short time previous been elected Presi- 
dent of the Miners' Protective Association of Ohio. 
He ceased active mining operations in 1879, and 
in the fall of the following year was check weigh- 
man with the Groves Coal Company. His prom- 
inence in the Democratic party led to his nomina- 
tion on that ticket to the State Legislatine, and 
although Stark County went Republican b^- a large 
majority, he made a splendid canvass and polled a 
large number of votes, losing the election by only 
sixty-three ballots. 

Elected in April, 1882, President of the Ohio 
Miners' Association, l\[r. McBride served in that 
capacity with distinguished abilitj' for several 
years. In December, 1888, he was chosen President 
of the National Progressive Miners' Union, and 
continued as such until Fel)ruary, 1890, when he 
declined re-election. As a token of recognition of 
his v.aluable services, he was made an honorary 
member of the union, being the only one at that 
time. April 1, 1890, he accepted the appointment 
by ex-Gov. Campbell as Commissioner to the Bu- 
reau of Labor Statistics, of which he was one of 
the organizers. He served in that capacitj^ until 
February 22, 1892, when he resigned to accept the 
Presidency of the United Mine Workers of Amer- 
ica, to which he had been elected by acclamation 
eleven days before. He had been elected and re- 
elected b_y acclamation thirteen times by different 
mine associations, a tribute to his worth more el- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



183 



oquent than mere words. Since 1890, he has been 
editor of the 3fuie)-s' Independent, the otficial organ 
of the union, which is published at Massilion. 

Again nominated by tlie Democrats in 1883, Mr. 
McBride was elected to the Sixty-sixth General 
Assembly by a majority of over one thousand. He 
was re-elected in 1885, serving two terms, 'and had 
the distinction of being the only member of the 
Sixty-sixth wiio was returned to Ihe Sixty-seventh 
General Assembly. In 1886, his party paid him 
the honor of nomination, at the Toledo Conven- 
tion, as Secretary of State, his opponent being Gen. 
Robinson, the incumbent of the office at that time. 
The party had many things to contend with, and 
the results were adverse. Mr. McBride was de- 
feated by eleven thousand seven hundred and 
eighty-one votes, but he ran far ahead of his party, 
the balance of the ticket being defeated by over 
twenty thousand. In 1887, acceding to the ur- 
gent request of his party, he became candidate for 
Senator, but was defeated by one hundred and five 
votes. 

Since 1871, Mr. McBride has held all the district 
official positions in the Knights of Labor organiza- 
tion, and has repeatedly served as delegate to the 
General Assembly. In December, 1886, when the 
American Federation of Labor was reorganized on 
a purely trade basis, he presided over the conven- 
tion held in Columbus for tlie purpose of organi- 
zation, but refused the position of President ten- 
dered him by acalamition of the convention. 
With one exception, he has attended all subsequent 
meetings of tlie union, and is delegate-elect to the 
convention of 1892. In his opinions regarding the 
momentous issues at stake between capital and la- 
bor, he holds broad views and has never been an 
extremist. He recognizes capital as necessary, but 
demands justice to his fellow-workers, and is the 
unswerving champion of right, having the courage 
of his convictions even in the face of l)itter oppo- 
sition. 

In all the strikes which have menaced public 
interests and attracted the attention of the world, 
Mr. McBride has worked effectively toward secur- 
ing compromises, and is still, as always, advocat- 
ing arbitration as a means of reconciliation. In 
1885, he suggested that the operators and miners 



meet jointly to designate the wages, and was pres- 
ent at the memorable meeting where schedules of 
prices were arranged. 

In attaining his present position and prominence, 
Mr. McBride has been assisted at all times by his 
devoted wife, to whom he was married August 11, 
'1874. Miss Mary Kelly, as she was formerly known, 
was born in Knox County, Ohio, the daughter of 
William and Eliza (Welker) Kelly. After gaining 
a good literary- education at Massilion, she com- 
menced to teach when very j^oung, and for five 
years followed that profession with success. She 
is the mother of four children: Lida L., Kittle B., 
Edward J. and .loseph F. The family home is a 
a comfortable residence on Summit Street, and is 
the center of true hospitality. 



TpNOBERT A. MILLER, General Manager of the 
lk*f C. Aultman & Co.'s works of Canton, is one 
tii J\ of the most prominent business men of this 
city, being connected withmanj'of its lead- 
ing enterprises. He has done much for the up- 
building of the place bj^ establishing industries, and 
his name is inseparably connected with tlie growth 
of Canton. 

Mr. Miller was born April 11, 1861, and-is the 
third son and fifth ciiild of Lewis and Mary A. 
Miller. His father was born in Green town. Sum- 
mit County-, Ohio, and became a leading business 
man of Stark County. He is now President of the 
C. Aultman Company, and is one of its largest 
stockholders. At present he resides in Akron, 
Ohio, and is largely interested in manufacturing 
industries of that place. 

The subject of this sketch removed with his par- 
ents to Akron, Ohio, in 1865, and attended the 
public schools of that city for some time, after 
which he pursued his studies in the Ohio Wesleyan 
University at Delaware, from which he was grad- 
uated in the Class of '81. On completing his 
education, he returned to Canton, and became a 



IHl 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



I'li'ik ill ('. Aiilliuaii A- (o.'s works, servingas sucli 
foi- throe vi'iu>. hi lt<t<."). ho was proiuotod to tlic 
IHisition of Assistant Supoiintoiulont, whioh ho 
hold until I8)ss), whon ho was mado (ionoral Man- 
agor. llo is now ooiinootod with the works in that 
oapaoity, and is one of the largest stookhohU'rs in 
this oonocni, whioh is one of tho oldest and most 
suhslantnil of its kind in the State. The firm 
known ns ('. Auiliiian A- Co. has been in existenoe 
sixty-two yoais, and niamifaoturos threshers and 
oni;ino>. Tho |il:uit io\orsalH>ut twenty-five acres, 
inoludini;- Iniiilior-yards, etc., and the buildings are 
mostly of brick. Their oapaoity has had to be con- 
stantly onlarijod in order to meet the inoreasing 
doiuand. I'.inplovniont is furni^hod to between 
four and live hundred men, who manufacture 
threshing-machines, and engines, both upright aud 
lioriE<>ntal. The (Jenoral Manager is a grandson 
of .John Miller, who founded the w<.>rks in 1831. 
The )>rosent ollicers are Lewis ^Miller, President; 
C. I., .lonos, A' ice-president; Robert Miller, General 
Manngor; .1. .V. Linville, Secretary, and M. B. Cox, 
rroasurer. Dur subject .as General Manager has 
proved himself a most ellicient factor in the suc- 
cess of this extensive business. 

Besides his connection with the C. Aultman it 
tVi.'s works, Mr. Miller is President of the Sun 
N'apor Street Light Company, whioh manufactures 
appliances for lighting street.*. He is Presi- 
dent of tho Canton Hardware Companj-, Pres- 
ident of tho .\rtificial Ice and Storage Company, 
Director of the Farmers' Bank of Canton, Vice- 
(irosidont of the Street Railw.iy Company, Director 
of the Canton Light Company and Director of the 
Akron Iron Coni]>any of Akron, Ohio. He is also 
a stookliolder in the Aultman it Jliller works of 
.\kron. Ohio: also Vice-president of the Canton 
Chiting Club and Treasurer of Mt. Union College 
at .\lliance, Ohio. 

In the year 1887, Mr. Miller was married to 
Miss Louise, daughter of Martin Igoe, of Indian- 
apolis, Ind.. and bv their union have been born a 
son and daughter. 

Tho family reside on West Tuscarawas Street, 
whore they have an elegant and palatial brick resi- 
dence, tastefully furnished, and situated in the 
midst of extensive grounds and attractive sur- 



roundings. Mr. Miller and his wife arc both mem- 
bers of the Firit Methodist F.piscopal Church of 
Canton. He served as one of its Trustees, and is 
Superintendent of the Sunday-school. For the 
past four years he has been President of the Young 
Men's Christian .\ssoeiation, and is also a member 
of its Hoard of Managers, lie takes a very prom- 
inent and active part in religious work, and does 
much for the advancement of the cause of Chris- 
tianity. He h.as the best interests of the communit}- 
at heart, and his support is ever given to worthy 
enterprises calculated to prove of public benefit. 
l.,ittle comment may be made on his business ca- 
reer, for the fact that he is prominently connected 
with so many leading industries attests his success. 
His dealings have ever been characterized by 
straightforwardness and honesty. The confidence 
of all with whom he has been brought in cont,iot 
is freely .iccorded him, and ho has the liighest ro- 
srard of a larffo circle of friends. 



J[OIIN DKCKAKl). one of tiio pioneer resi- 
dents of this county, *tands among tho 
foremost of the successful farmers who have 
contributed .so greatly toward the develop- 
ment t>f this county. His homo, wliioh is located 
on section 23, Perry Township, is under good til- 
lage, and from its well-cultivated fields Mr. Decker 
reaps rich harvests in compensation for the toil 
and care expended. He is one of the oldest men 
now living in his township, whose growth he has 
watched with pleasure, promoting it in his capacity 
of an energetic agriculturist. 

The original of this sketch is a native of this 
county, having been born January 21, 1828, and 
is a son of Daniel and Catherine ( Htx>wn) Deckard, 
natives of Pennsylvania. Tho father of our subject 
emigrated to this county as early .is 1815, and for 
a time after coining here was engaged as a distill- 
er. Finally, however, he settled on a farm in 
Canton Township, four miles south of the city of 
that name. His in'operty w.is in its primitive con- 



roiniJAI'I AS\) lil'XiHAJ'UIf AL RI-X'ORD. 



IXJ 



rlilion, jukI Mr. I)c(rk;ir(l f;rected thereon a log 
<!al)iii,iii whicli he rn:irh; liib home until liiH decease, 
wliicli occunerl in .(line, iHH'.K His wife, who pre- 
ceded hi in to the better land by a year, was the 
mother of twelve children, of whom seven still 
survive, namely: John, our subject; Rebecca, Mrs. 
Michael Frederick; Amos; llannaii, the wife of 
Michael Y'ocy; iJaniel; Jane, Mrs. K. liichard; and 
Keubeii. 

John iX'ckard of this sketch was reared U) man's 
estate in his native county, and received his edu- 
cation in the primitive lo^ schoolhousc. He was 
married February 2, lHi')(>. U> Miss Caroline Miller, 
who is also a native of this county, and the daugh- 
ter offjeorge and Ann Miller. 'J'o them lia-S been 
granted a family of five children, four of whom 
are living, namely: Meli.s.sa, .Mrs. Christian Ash; 
(/yrus, Hradley C. and Charles. 

Our subject owns a valuable estate, which com- 
prises ninety-live acres of land. Uis present sub- 
stantial position has been i cached entirely through 
his own perseverance, and his life shows what can 
be accomplished by a person with w^urage and de- 
termination. He has done much iMoneei work in 
this county, and sustains an enviable reputation 
an a fii-st-class agriculturist. Politically, Mr. Deck- 
ard is a Republican in politics, and in social affairs 
is connected with IVriy Cirnnge. 



1, 



C. nil, IP K\ KKHAklJ. a letircd fairncr now 
f^ residing in Canton, has spent his entire 
life in Stark CV)unty. He was born in 
/ \ Plain Township. Sept<!mber 28, 1812, and 
is a son of Henry Kverhard, a native of North- 
ampton County, Pa. The grandfather, Paul Ever- 
hard, was of German descent. 'I'hc father of our 
subject was a potter by trade and followed that 
business during his younger years. He was joined 
in wedlock with Miss Mary M. Hewitt, of Wash- 
ington County. Pa., a daughter of Philip Hewitt, 
who was also of German lineage. In the year 1809, 
Henry Kverhard emigraU;d Uj Stark County, locat- 



ing in Plain Township, where he made a permanent 
settlement. He (tarried on general farming, and 
aLsf> operated a grist and saw mill for a numljcr of 
3'ears. His wife died in 1829. He survived her 
for about twenty' years, passing away in 1848. 
This worthy couple, who were highly respected in 
the eornmunitj', had a family of five sons and five 
daughters who grew to mature years, but Philip, 
the >'oungest son, is the only survivor. 

Our subject spent his boyhood days quietly upon 
his father's farm, remaining under the parental 
roof until he had attained his majority, when he 
began farming on his own account. The common 
schools afforded him his educational advantages, 
and for some twelve yeai-s during the winter sea- 
son he was engaged in teaching. As a companion 
and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Nanc3' 
Hane, of Canton Township, a daughter of Christian 
Hane, their union being celebrated September 1, 
184C. The young couple licgan their domestic life 
in Plain Township, where our subject carried on 
general farming and stock-raising for many 3'ears. 
He always kept a flock of sheep, which he s^jld for 
food purjjoses, or for the wo<^l which they yielded. 
In 187.5, he left the farm and removed to Canton, 
where he has since resided. He practicall3' lives 
retired, devoting onl3' a portion of his time to his 
business interests. He sold his farm in 188.5. He 
owns a fine residence at No. 163 North Cleveland 
.\ venue, a handsome and commodious structure, 
well finished and tastefull3- furnished. 

Cnto Mr. and Mrs. Kverhard six children have 
been born: Klta, wife of T. A. Ileward, of Cleve- 
land; Mary V., wh ^ died May 7, 1890; Alvah H., 
who resides in South Dakota; Otto Philip, who 
makes his home in J/eadwood, S. Dak.; Charles J., 
who purchased and now resides on the old home- 
stead in Plain Township; and Jra Hane, who is 
Teller in the First National Rank of Canton. The 
mother of this famil3' departed this life December 
22, 1891, in her sixty-seventh year, and man3- 
friends mourned her loss. .She was a devoted mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church, to which Mr. Ever- 
hard also belongs, both having united with the 
church when young. 

In politics, our subject i- a Republican. He has 
never been an office-seeker, but served for one 



186 



PORTRAI'I AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



term as Supervisor of his township. After coming 
to the city he suffered greatl_y from rheumatism in 
the iinee joint for three years and the bone became 
diseased. This necessitated radical treatment, and 
the limb was amputated October 22, 1888. Since 
that time Mr. liverhard has enjoj^ed excellent 
health. He is resting after many years of earnest 
labor, the fruits of his former toil being amply 
sufficient to keep him in comfort throughout his 
remaining days. 



^/jl CAMPBELL, a prominent physician of 
(@/u || Canal Fulton, was born on the 19lh of 

/// 4) Jul3-, 1845, in Elgin Count}', Province of 
1^ Ontario, Canada, and is the eldest son of 

John and Margaret (Mclntyre) Campbell. His 
parents were both natives of Argylcshire, Scotland, 
the former born in 1811, and the latter in 1818. 
They both crossed the Atlantic in 1831, and lo- 
cated in Elgin County, where they were married. 
The death of the father there occurred at the age 
of eighty years. His widow still survives him, and 
is living at the old home at the age of seventy-five 
years. Their family numbered five soits and four 
daughters, all tif whom grew to manhood and 
womanhood, whilf with one exception all were 
married. 

Dr. Campbell was reared to manhood upon his 
father's farm, and began his education in a log 
schoolhouse furnished with slab seats. A huge fire- 
place occupied one end of the room, and the smoke 
escaped through a mud and stick chimney. He 
afterward attended the Grammar School in St. 
Thomas, Canada, and in 1863, at the age of nine- 
teen years, he began teaching in Middlesex County, 
Canada, where he remained for five years. In that 
waj' he earned the money to pay his tuition in col- 
lege, and entered the medical department of the 
University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, from which 
he was graduated in 1871. Locating in Western 
Star, Summit County, Ohio, lie immediately be- 



gan pi-actice, and there followed his chosen pro- 
fession for two years, or until the 1st of May, 1873, 
when he came to Canal Fulton. lie has since been 
a leading jiractitioner of this place. 

Dr. Campbell was married in September, 1874, 
to Miss Amelia Upjohn, daughter of Dr. Uriah LTp- 
john, of Kalamazoo, Mich., and a native of Rich- 
land, Kalamazoo County-, Mich., born in 1849. 
After a short married life, she died Januarj' 29, 
1876, leaving one son, A. N. On the 1st of Maj', 
1883, the Doctor was joined in wedlock with Miss 
Ida M. Fisher, who was born in Dalton, Wayne 
County, Ohio, in 1857. Her death occurred April 
30, 1889, and a daughter was left to mourn her loss, 
Carrie I. 

Dr. Campbell is a member of the Ohio State Med- 
ical Society, the Northeastern Ohio Medical Society, 
and the Stark County Academj' of Medicine. He 
also belongs to Elliott Lodge No. 514, A.F. A- A. M., 
of Canal Fulton. In politics, he is a Republican, 
and is a member of the vScliool Board. He is also 
Pension Examining Surgeon of the Massillon 
Board. The Doctor is a supporter and adherent of 
the Presbyterian Church, and is a friend to all so- 
cial, moral and educational interests. He ranks 
high in his profession, and he keeps abreast with 
all the discoveries and theories concerning the 
practice of medicine. He has been very suc- 
cessful in his practice, and has secured the confi- 
dence and regard of the community, and has now 
a liberal patronage. 



l^-f^[ 



'^^AMES BAYLISS, a prominent old settler, 
but now retired from the active duties of 
life, was born at Stratford-on-Avon, Eng- 
land, November 7, 1808, the home of the 
famous Phiglish bard, Shakespeare. His father, 
Benjamin B.ayliss, was also born there in 1777, 
and when young was apprenticed to the tailor's 
trade, which occupation received his attention in 
his native land until 1818, when he crossed the 
ocean to America and opened a shop in the city 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



187 



of Philadelpliia. He brought his wife and six 
children with him and tlie vo.yage of the sailing- 
vessel "Islington" occupied seven weeks. After 
coming to the United States, he resided success- 
ively ill Philadelphia, Germantown, New York 
City, and Rochester, N. Y., and died in the last-men- 
tioned city July 10, 1861, and lies buried at Mt. 
Hoyje. He was a self-made and self-educated man, 
was of a very pious nature and was pastor of a 
church in Philadelphia. He thoroughly identified 
himself with the interests of his adopted country, 
and was bitterly opposed to kingdoms and mon- 
archies. He was strictly temperate, and being also 
industrious and frugal, he accumulated a compe- 
tency. His wife, Mary Trimble, was born at Strat- 
ford-on-Avon, England, and died in 18;50. Six 
children borne by her grew to maturity but only 
the eldest son is now living. The youngest 
daugliter, Sarah, became an eminent school teacher 
and was married to a Mr. Koyce, with whom she 
first removed to Canada, then to Illinois and fin- 
ally made the overland route to California, and 
when .James Bayliss visited that region he found 
her in San Francisco. She and her husband had a 
remarkable experience in crossing the snow-clad 
Rocky Mountains and would, without doubt, 
have frozen to death, had not a (loverument train 
been sent to their relief. She rode three hundred 
miles on a mule with her baby in her arms. She 
reared her family in California and made the liv- 
ing for them and her sick liusband. She had one 
son, Prof. Josiah Ro3'ce,wlio was graduated from the 
Universitj' of California, then attended an institu- 
tion in Germany, and then returned to the United 
States and entered the .John Hopkins University 
of Baltimore. He later became a professor in the 
University of California, but is now professor of 
Philosophy in Harvard University. This estima- 
ble woman met with an accident which resulted in 
her death in 1891. 

The only brother of .lames Bayliss, Rev. Samuel 
Bayliss, was a prominent divine of the Congrega- 
tional Church at Brooklyn, N. Y., and died while 
following his calling. James Bayliss spent the 
first ten years of his life at Stratford-on-Avon, 
England, but throughout his life he only received 
about three years' schooling. Upon reaching Phil- 



adelphia, he at once went to work to assist in mak- 
ing a living for the family and while in German- 
town was in a manufacturing establishment, the 
highest wages he received there being 11.50 a 
week. Later, he worked in a calico-printing 
establishment in Philadelphia, and was. there when 
the first copper plates, or cylinders, were smuggled 
in from England. Subsequently, when working at 
the weaver's trade, he was taken sick and upon 
recovering learned the tailor's trade in the estab- 
lishment of John Tack, which was one of the finest 
shops in the city of New York, located at No. 1 9 
Broadway, and remained there for two years. In 
November, 1827, he came to Cleveland, then made 
his way on foot up the tow path to Akron and 
then overland to Kendall, which place he reached 
in the latter part of November, 1827. After 
working at liis trade for some time, he, in connec- 
tion with three young men, took charge of the 
Charity Rotch Boarding School, which thej' success- 
fully conducted for four years. 

In 1833, Mr. Bayliss removed to Tuscarawas 
County, bought thirty acres of land and engaged in 
farming and the lumber business. He operated a 
large sawmill and filled large contracts for three or 
four years, hut returned to Kendall and opened a 
tailor shop Which he conducted until 1849, when 
he was seized with the gold fever and started to 
California, leaving behind him a wife and three 
children. He and six men left Massillon for New 
York City, where they built a small three-ton boat, 
loaded it with goods and took it on board a vessel 
bound for the Isthmus of Panama. After many 
hardships, they succeeded in crossing the Isthmus 
with the aid of natives, and secured passage on 
a Dutch vessel, the "Sophia," and reached San Fran- 
cisco at the end of ninety-one da^'S, eightj^-eight 
of which they were entirely out of sight of 
land. They at once proceeded to San Francisco, 
thence to Sacramento and from there to the Amer- 
ican River, where they made a considerable amount 
of money. At the end of about three months, 
they returned to Colom.a and there, when Mr. 
Bayliss' goods reached hini, he oi)ened a store, 
called the Ohio Store, which he, in partnership 
with the others, conducted until his removal from 
the place. In the winter of 18.")l-52, he returned 



188 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



home via the Isthmus of Panama and New York 
Cit^', and wliile in the latter place he went to the 
United States mint and had his gold coined. He re- 
turned to Massillon witli several thousand dollars, 
with which he purchased a small farm near tlie 
city; soon after this he engaged in the dr3^-goods 
business and successfully conducted it for four 
years. In 1857. he began buying wool and be- 
came one of the most extensive dealers in the 
same in the State, and an excellent judge ot the 
article. In 1871, he purchased six hundred and 
forty acres of land, an unbroken section of excel- 
lent timber, and on this land he erected a saw- 
mill, and for the first three 3-ears sold an immense 
amount of lumber at an excellent profit. Although 
he has sold some land at different times, he still 
has four hundred acres left, under part of which 
is being mined an excellent quality of coal. This 
land is improved with good buildings and is 
farmed on shares. He has a fine sugar grove of 
over fifteen hundred trees and manufactures 
a large amount of maple syrup eacii year. His 
land is undulating, and well watered and is excep- 
tionally well adapted for the raising of stock, 
to whicii he has given considerable attention, 
Since 1881, he has been a resident of Massillon, 
and in 1882 built the rolling mills of this place. 
He organized and was chosen President of the 
Massillon Coal and Iron Company. He helped 
build the first warehouse in the town for storing- 
wheat and it is known as a fact that Massillon has 
received and stored more wheat direct from the 
grower than any other dppot in the world. .Jan- 
uary 1, 1831, he was married to Miss Eliza J. Fox, 
who was born in Tuscarawas Township, this 
count}', to Jehial Fox, a native of Vermont and a 
carpenter, cabinet-maker, stone hewer and dresser. 
He came to Ohio in 1810, and afterward tilled the 
soil and worked at his trade, and was a prominent 
.Tusticc of the Peace a number of years. 

Mrs. Bayliss died July 4, 1891, at the age of 
seventy -seven years. She and her husband spent 
sixty j'ears of their lives together and in 1881 
celebrated their golden wedding, and the sixti- 
eth anniversary of their marriage in 1891, at 
which time there had not been a death in the fam- 
ily. Five children were born to them: Edwin was 



a well-known manufacturer here; Edward B. is 
City Clerk and a leading business man of the town; 
Mary A. resides in Cleveland; Carrie M. is the wife 
of E. G. Willson, a prominent attorney and City 
Solicitor and Collector, and James M. Mr. Bayliss 
has held various positions on the School Board, is 
an active member of the State Association of 
Wool Buyers, is an active member of the State 
Agricultural Society and of the Stark Countj' 
Horticultural Society, and in politics is a strong 
Republican. The house in which he lives was 
built before Massillon was laid out, but is still in 
good preservation and makes a comfortable and 
pleasant home. He is a very jjrominent old settler 
and in every respect an honorable gentleman. 



lISSv AVID K()(;EKS. Among the pioneers and 
I 111 substantial farmers of this county is num. 
^i^ bered Mr. Rogers, who beg.in life empty- 
handed, but by unremitting industry, seconded by 
sound judgment and shrewd business qualities, 
has acquired a good property. He is at present re- 
siding in Perry Township, on a well-improved 
farm, where he is ranked among the well-to-do 
agriculturists. 

Our subject is a native of Columbiana Comity, 
this State, born P'ebruary 7, 1816, and is the S(m 
of Alexander and Mary (Clay) Rogers, natives of 
Pennsylvania. When a lad of fourteen years, 
young David emigrated with his parents to this 
county, and the family- became early settlers of 
Jackson Township. He was reared to man's es- 
tate amid tlie pioneer scenes of this section and 
has done his full share in clearing and improving 
the land. His industrious and well-directed ef- 
forts have now enabled him to retire from the 
toils and cares of life, and he is now spending his 
time in ease and enjoyment. 

The five children comprised in the family of our 
subject are: Flora, Mrs. Thom.as AVliipple; Mary 
J.; Eliza, Mrs. John Snyder; Matilda and Hiram. 
Mr. Rogers is the proprietor of one hundred and 



POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



191 



forty acres of valu:i))le liind, on wliioli he has 
erected every necessary building for carrying on 
the work of the estate, all being substantial and 
well arranged. He has been a useful citizen in 
tliis township and has served as Sciiool Director 
for some time. He casts a Republican vote dur- 
ing elections and is in favor of all measures 
which tend toward the development of the up- 
building of his adopted county. 

The maiden name of our subject's wife was 
Margaret Knath, and she departed this life in 
Ma}-, 1891. She was a faithful member of the 
Lutheran Church, and lived a happy married life 
of more than half a centurj' with her husband. 
Their son, Hiram Rogers, resides on the old place, 
which he carries on in a most profitable mannei'. 
He was married to Miss Emma Bordner, and has 
become the father of six children : Herbert, Frank, 
Stella, Joseph, .Jesse and Dora. 

As one of the pioneers of this county, Mr. 
Rogers is held in the highest esteem and has the 
confidence of all who know him. Stanch in prin- 
ciples, clear in perception and decided in char- 
acter, he deserves the good things which have 
come to him, and the high character for probity 
which years of intimate business and social ac- 
quaintance have brought him. 



D. ROF. HENRV C. 15AEK, professor of music 
P at Massillon, Ohio, is well known in nuisi- 
< cal circles, and is properly considered a 
I \ leading authority on all matters pertaining 
to his favorite branch. He was born in Osnaburg 
Township, this county, October 22, 1834, and 
comes of one of the pioneer families of the Buck- 
eye State. His grandfather, Abraham Baer, was 
a Virginian and of Swiss descent. He subse- 
quently moved to Pennsylvania, and was a par- 
ticipant in the whisky riots in that State. In 1806, 
he came with his family to Ohio, and located in 
Osnaburg Township, Stark County, and began his 
9 



career as a pioneer. He erected a rude log cabin 
and became a very successful tiller of the soil and 
owned vast tracts of land, which his sons, twelve 
in number, assisted him in clearing. The family' 
was one of the good, old-fashioned kind, consist- 
ing of si.xteen children, twelve sons and four 
daughters, to each of whom he deeded one hun- 
dred and sixty acres of land. On the Little Sandv 
he built the fii'St sawmill in the township, which 
later became known as Hershberger Mill. He also 
cleared immense tracts of land, and was, in fact, 
a pioneer of the pioneers. From the first, he 
demonstrated the fact that he was a man of re- 
sources and indomitable energy, with a capacitv 
for conducting enterprises of more than ordinary 
consequence. He was a Dunkard in his religious 
views and lived to be over eighty years of age. 

The father of our subject, David Baer, was 
born in Westmoreland County, Pa., and was a 
civil engineer by profession. He took private 
lessons in his trade, and was appointed Government 
Surveyor by Gov. Ethan Brown. Our subject has 
the commission on parchment, written in 1820. 
David Baer served as Surveyor for twenty-one 
years and assisted in laying the county off into 
townships, and also lieli)ed to lay out the cities of 
Massillon and Kendall. He resided on a farm for 
many years, but in 1848 lie retired and settled in 
Massillon, where his demise occurred in 1864, 
when he was sixty-eight years of age. His death 
was caused by being thrown from a horse. He 
was one of the first residents of Stark Countv, 
and by his generosity and strict integrity, as well 
as many other estimable qualities, gathered around 
him a wide circle of friends, and no one is more 
kindly remembered. He was .Justice of the Peace 
as long as he remained in the township, and was 
a man of more than the average intelligence. He 
was urged to run for Congress but never would al- 
low his name to be used. A Whig in politics at 
first, he afterward espoused the principles of the 
Republican party, and was a strong Abolitionist 
during the war, being a conductor on the under- 
ground railroad. He married Jliss Mary Doll, a 
native of Virginia, born in Jefferson County, and 
the daughter of John Doll, also of the Old Do- 
minion, but of German descent, and a Lutheran iu 



192 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



his religious views. Tlie latter was a farmer and 
teamster, and was extensivelj" engaged in the lat- 
ter occupation, running many teams and wag- 
ons. He came to Ohio in the year 1806, located 
in Osnaburg Township, this county, and tlierc 
followed his different occupations. Eleven chil- 
dren were born to Mr. and Sirs. Baer, five of whom 
are living at the present time. 

Tlie original of this notice was the sixth in 
order of birth of the above-mentioned children, 
and until the age of fourteen years his scholastic 
training was received in the log schoolhouse of 
pioneer days. There the "three R's" were taught, 
and he remembers writing with a goose-quill pen. 
When but a boy, he displayed great natural ability 
for music, and was an expert violin player at the 
age of fourteen years. Later, he went to the 
Musical Conservatory at Dayton, and received 
private instruction from Emil Krouch. He also 
received instruction on all stringed instruments 
and took a thorough course in music. He carried 
on this study for three years, and at the same 
time took up the study of architecture and nie- 
chauics, as well as the carpenter's trade. When 
seventeen years of age, he came home and worked 
at the latter occupation, but subsequently was en- 
gaged in teaching and playing in orchestras. 

In 1858, our subject went to Barr3- County, 
jMich., and there bought land on Thornapple 
River, put up a mill, and engaged in the lumber 
business, which he carried on ver3- successfully 
until the bugle blast of war swept Northward 
from the .South. In July, 1861, his patriotism 
was so greatly aroused by sight of the Michigan 
troops going to the front, that he dropped his 
business and joined the troops on their wa}- to 
meet the enemy. He enlisted in Company H, 
Sixth Michigan Infantry, and was mustered in at 
Kalamazoo in August, 1861. This company was 
called the "Eaton Rifles," and was sent to Mr- 
ginia. From there they went to New Orleans 
with Gen. Butler in 1862, and were in the De- 
partment of the Gulf, and our subject participated 
in the taking of the forts below New Orleans, the 
siege of Port Hudson, the expedition up the Red 
River and Sibine Cross Roads, at which latter 
place he was promoted to the rank of First Lieu- 



tenant. He was detailed in the engineer corps 
and assisted in building the dam across the Red 
River. To get the boats across, he worked in the 
water up to his neck, while minie-balls si)attered 
the water around him. F'roin there he went back 
to F't. INIorgan and Vt. Gaines, and re-enlisted at 
F't. Hudson in 1864, remaining in active service 
until the close of hostilities. He was in every 
engagement in which his regiment participated, 
and served his countr}' faithfully and well. He 
wfis mustered out at CarroUton, near New Orleans, 
in August, 1865, after serving four years to a 
day. 

Returning to his old home in M,assillon, our 
subject began teaching music, and was engaged 
ill this for eighteen j'ears, after which he w.as en- 
g.aged in building and contracting in connection 
with his music for twelve j'ears. He has built 
some of the finest residences in the cit\-, among 
them being those of C. M. Russell, Charles Steese, 
James K. Russell, J. W. McClj'mond, and G. L. 
Albright, as fine residences as are to be found in 
the Slate. Since 1890, he has turned his atten- 
tion exclusively to music, and has a very large 
cl.ass here. He gives lessons on the violin, guitar, 
and all stringed instruments, and has an orchestra 
here, the same being known as"Baer's Orchestra." 
He arranges some of the most difficult music, has 
made a complete success in this occupation, and 
is one of the finest musicians in the county. The 
mother of our subject made her home with him 
until her death, which occurred in 1885. Mr. 
Biier is a member of the Independent Order of 
Odd F'ellows and the Grand Army of the Repub- 
lic, being a charter member of the jiost in the 
latter. In politics, he is a Irue-bluc Republican. 



ILLIAM F. RICKS, Cashier of the Mer- 
chants' National Bank, one of the most 
'^'W popular, strong .ind ttourishing institutions 
of M.assillon, is one of its organizers, and all the 
facilities consistent with sound and conservative 



PORTRAIT AND LIOCiRAPIIlCAL RECORD. 



193 



banking are extended to customers, and it is an ap- 

|)it'c-iated factor in sustaining tlie commercial repu- 
tation of tlie city. Mr. Ricks was horn in I'ilts- 
burgli, I'a., February 16, 183!(, but liit< father was 
born in I'liissia, Germany, and there became a pa- 
per manufacturer. lie came to tlie United States 
when a .young man and located in Pittsburgh, 
where he became connected witli a large paper 
manufactory, and remained thereuntil 1840, when 
he came to West Hrookfield, Ohio, where he opened 
a mercantile establishment, was Postmaster for four 
years and made his home until 18.") 1. At the end 
of this time, he returned to Pittsburgh and opened 
a boot and shoe store, but two years later returned 
to Massillon and opened a dry-goods establish- 
ment. In 1873, he was appointed Postmaster, and 
served two terms under (Jrant and Hayes. At the 
end of his term, he retired from active business 
and was called from life in November, 1890. 
He was a Republican in politics, and was an Elder 
in the Presbyterian Church. His wife was born in 
Prussia and died in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1851, hav- 
ing borne her husl)and four children, three of whom 
arc now living: Helena, wife of Dr. Lew Shesser, of 
Canton; William P., and A. J., a [irominent .Judge 
of the United States District Courts at Cleveland. 
AVilliam P. Ricks passed a rather uneventful 
boyhood, and was taught the ordinary branches of 
education in the High School of Massillon, com- 
l)lcting his literary education in the Iron City 
Commercial College at Pittsburgh, I'a., where his 
love of learning and study led him to make rapid 
advancement in hisstudies. In 18(J2, he purch.ased 
his father's stock of goods, and during the twenty- 
eight years Miat he followed thai calling, so zealous 
and energetic were his labors that he prospered, 
and in his earliest business ventures he demon- 
strated the fact that he was a man of resources and 
indomitable energy, with acapacity for conducting 
enterprises of more than ordinMiy consequence. 
He has always been interested in ilie progress of 
Massillon and vicinity, and was one of the chief 
promoters of the Wheeling & l«ake Erie, and 
Cleveland, Lorain i^- Wheeling Railioads through 
the county. He was interested in the rolling-mill 
company, called the Massillon Coal and lion Cdiii- 
pany, and was one of its Directors. 



In the fall of 1890, he sold his store, and on the 
Dtii of .Tune of the same year, he became one of 
the organizers, and eventually the Cashier of the 
Merchants' National Rank. He is a stockholder and 
Director of the Massillon Huildingand Loan Asso- 
ciation and was one of its charter members. The 
well-known bank of which he is Cashier has a 
capital of *1.50,000, with an \individed surplus of 
*3(j,00(). It is the second bank in importance in 
the place, and is a very nourishing institution. 
Mr. Ricks is the owner of considerable valuable 
real estate. A Rei)ublican in politics, he has sup- 
ported the principles of that parly on all occasions, 
and has been its representative in State conven- 
tions. There is not a man in the county of Stark 
that stands higher in public estiniation than does 
he, but being of a lather modest disposition, he 
does not seem to estimate himself at his real worth. 
He has the hai)py faculty of making friends, and 
when once won, Ihey are rai-ely lost. 



^^=^^>^Jr<cf^ 



,OBERT MrCAUGHEY was a man whose 
sterling worth of character was recog- 
*\^ nized by all, and whose career was marked 
I by uprightness and ti nth. He was a 
native of Chester County, Pa., born September, 
29, 1810, a son of John and Jane (Wiley) Mc- 
Cauglicy, and grandson of Robert and Elizabeth 
McCaughey, natives of Ireland. The father of 
our subject was born in County Deny, Ireland, in 
the 3'ear 1780, and w.is but eleven years of age 
wiien he came to this country with his paients. 
They settled in Chester County, Pa., and here 
young ."McCaughey passed his youthful days. He 
was married in this county to Miss Wiley, annlivo 
of Pennsylvania, born in tlie year 1784, and con- 
tinued to make his home here until 1811, when he 
decided to move to the Hiickeye State. He 
brought his family direct to Stark County, located 
in Massillon, and there remained until about 1815, 
wlien lie removed to Lawrence Township and took 
up one hundred and sixty acres on .section 1 1, all 



194 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. 



wild land covered with a dense growth of timber. 
Notwithstanding all this, the soil was fertile, and 
with such rude implements as were in use in those 
days, the work of clearing progressed, the crops 
were put in, and rich returns were reaped. The 
father died there in 1829, and his widow afterward 
married Samuel Davis, and died in 1860. 

Robert McCaughey was brought to Stark County, 
Ohio by his parents when but six mouths old, and 
as a consequence all his early recollections are of 
this State. He grew to manhood in Lawrence 
Township, and received the training of backwoods 
life, and of the log schoolhouse. Being naturally 
bright and a great reader, he studied his lessons 
under the home roof, and in this way became a 
good scholar. He was the eldest of seven children, 
and at the time of his father's death was nineteen 
years of age. When about eighteen, he went to 
Massillon to learn the carpenter's trade, and served 
an apprenticeship of three years, traveling all over 
the county and woiking at his trade afterward. 
He was in Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati and other 
large cities. Returning home to Stark County, 
Ohio, he was married on the 28th of December, 
1837, to Miss Hannah Michencr Clark, who was 
born in Harrison County, Ohio, on the 4th of Au- 
gust, 1820, the only child of Samuel and Hannah 
Clark, the latter dying when Mrs. McCaughey was 
but four days old. Her father afterward returned 
to Ireland, his native country, and left his child, 
Hannah, in the care of her grandparents, who kept 
her until she was two years old, after which her 
mother's sister, Mrs. Rachel Haines, reared her un- 
til she was nine years of age. She was then placed 
in the care of her guardian. Dr. B. Michener, of 
Canton, with whom she remained until her mar- 
riage, when seventeen years of age. 

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. McCaughey 
located in Canal Fulton, where our subject worked 
at his trade until 184 1, when they located on the old 
homestead formerly belonging to his father. This 
land was on section 11, and here Mr. McCaughey 
continued to reside, engaged in tilling the soil, 
until his death on the loth of October, 1868. His 
wife survived him until the 3d of November, 1889. 
In politics, he was a Democrat. Nine children 
were born to this worthy couple, five daughters 



and four sons, as follows: John C. and Hannah J., 
deceased; Elizabeth A., Martlia L.; Mary Bell, 
deceased; Robert W., of Massillon; Charles E., 
■William W. and Clara E., deceased. ]\Iartha and 
Elizabeth reside on the old homestead, and are 
carrying on the farm of one hundred and sixty 
acres with the help of hired hands. Tliey are 
members of the Presbyterian Church of Canal 
Fulton, and are highly esteemed for their many 
womanly virtues. The great-grandfather's par- 
ents were from Scotland, and settled in the North 
of Ireland. 






'ERD R. WEBER. Among the resources 
that go to make up the commercial re- 
sources of the town of Canton, the trade 
carried on in coal is a most important feature, and 
foremost among those engaged in it here is Mr. 
Ferd R. Weber, wholesale and retail dealer in coal. 
Mr. Weber was born in Canton, in July, 1863, and 
is the youngest of seven sons. 

Ouu subject's parents, John and Catherine 
(Ohliger) Weber, were natives of Germany, but at 
an early age they crossed the ocean to America, 
and were married in this country. The_v settled 
in Canton, Ohio, and there make their home at the 
present time. The original of this notice received 
his education in the Canton schools, and afterward 
received a thorough training in Canton College, 
thus laying the foundation for his subsequent pros- 
perous career, for it has long been acknowledged 
that no matter what a man's occupation in life may- 
be, a very necessary element to his success is a 
good education. 

After flnishing his scholastic training, our subject 
was employed by the Diebold Safe & Lock Com- 
pany as shipping clerk, which position he held six 
years. Afterward he was in the employ of Ridge- 
way, Burton & Co., as book-keeper, and was so ex- 
pert and thorough-going, that he remained in their 
employ for five years. The determination and 
perseverance so characteristii- of tliose of (ierman 



PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



195 



descent were plainly discernible in j'oung AVeber 
at an early age, and as he was upright and honor- 
able in all his transactions, success only awaited 
him. 

In 1890, he purchased an interest in the busi- 
ness of Ridgewa\', Burton tt Co., dealers in 
coal, and later he purchased their interest and 
succeeded to the business. He handles hard, soft 
and blacksmith's coal, and has a very exten- 
sive local trade, running from twelve to fifteen 
delivery wagons in the city of Canton. He is en- 
ergetic and enterprising, a thorough and com- 
petent man of business, and is lionorable and up- 
right in all his dealings. 

Mr. Weber selected his wife in the person of 
Miss Dora Elmer, and their nuptials were cele- 
brated I n the 4tii of December, 1891. Her father, 
C. II. Elmer, is a member of the well-known firm 
of Sherlock, Elmer & Sherlock. For twelve years 
Mr. AVeber was Treasurer, and thiee years Manager 
of the Schafer Opera House, during which time he 
showed great tact and excellent judgment in se- 
lecting companies, and in the management of the 
business generally, notwithstanding his great riv- 
alry with the Grand Opera House. 



^f; AMIiiS II. McLAlN is a wealthy manufac. 
turer of Canton, and is at the head of the 
well-known establishment of J. H. McLain <fe 
Co., of that place. His home, however, has 
always been in Massillon, where he is well known 
and has a host of warm friends. He was born in 
this city November 16, 1842, his father being John 
E. McLain, a native of Greene County, Pa., where 
he was born on the 5th of Jul}', 1814. He was & 
blacksmith bj- trade, and after following this call- 
ing for four j'ears, he came with his parents, James 
and Eleanor (Evans) McLain, to New Lisbon, Col- 
umbiana Count\-, Ohio, in 1820, where he was left 
an orphan at the age of ten years. In 1832, he 
turned his footsteps in the direction of Massillon, 



and began serving an apprenticeship with Jacob 
Jacob}'. Four years later, he i^urchased the estab- 
lishment belonging to Mr. Everhart, and, in part- 
nershi]3 with a Mr. Knapp, manufactured the first 
threshing-machine that was ever put up in Stark 
County. In 1840, he became the owner of three 
canal boats, running from Cleveland to Ports- 
mouth, and was subsequently successfully engaged 
in the livery, drug and dry-goods business. 

He was next engaged to superintend the build- 
ing of the shops belonging to the firm of Daven- 
port, Russell At Co.; then became Superintendent 
of the Massillon Iron Company, and upon its fail- 
ure began conducting the establishment on his 
own account. From 1849 to 18.51, he was engaged 
in the manufacture of carriages, but in the last- 
mentioned }ear, in partnership with H. S. Yesler, 
he erected the first sawmill in Seattle, Wash., which 
was soon doing a prosperous business, and made 
annual trips to that place. In 1856, he became a 
President of a private bank, but from 1862 
to 1865 was the proprietor of a dry-goods 
establishment, and from 1862 to 1864 was 
Provost-Marshal of Stark County. In 1867, he 
visited California, and other Western States and 
Territories, and for twenty-two years was con- 
nected with the sawmilling business in the West. 
In 1869, in connection with Mr. Hunt, he started 
a private bank, but sold out in 1875, and bought 
the Union National Bank, of which he was Presi- 
dent until his death, being also largely engaged in 
the real-estate business. He laid out three addi- 
tions to Massillon, was at one time one of its Al- 
dermen, and politically, affiliated with the Repub- 
lican party. 

January 10, 1839, he was married to Miss Eliza 
Austin, a daughter of Isaac Austin, who settled in 
this county at an early date, and here the mother 
passed from life in the fall of 1885, her husband's 
death occurring in March of the following year. 
Of six children born to them, five attained matur- 
ity, and four are now living. Of this family, 
James H. McLain is the second in order of birth. 
His facilities for obtaining an education were very 
good, and after finishing a high-school course, he 
spent some time in Duff's Business College, of 
Pittsburgh, Pa. I^pon leaving this institution, he 



196 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



became a partner in his father's dry-goods estab- 
lishment, and was given charge of the same. Tlie 
tirm afterward became known as McLain & Rick, 
and in 186G as McLain, Ranger & Co., their bus- 
iness lieing located at the corner of Main and Erie 
Streets, and existing until 1872. Succeeding this, 
he was in the banking business for three years, 
during which time he became interested in the 
Wliite Sandstone Quarry, in partnership with John 
Paul and J. H. Hunt, which they operated for one 
year. In 1876, Mr. McLain purchased a one-half in- 
terest in the Crystal Mil Is at Millpoit, and has since 
been connected with the milling interests of this 
section. About 1884, he sold his mills and bought 
an interest in the stone quarries at Tippecanoe, at 
which time he was also interested in the coal bus- 
iness. In the fall of 1887, having some stock in, 
and being a Director of, the Canton Car Companj-, 
he continued to purchase stock in the same until 
he became the owner of it all. He is now its effi- 
cient President and Treasurer; his son Erank C. 
is Vice-president, and his son John E. is Secre- 
tary. This establishment occupies five acres of 
ground in the heart of Can ton, and is conveniently 
located near the Ft. AVayne Railroad. All kinds 
of iron and brass goods are manufactured here, and 
thirteen different styles of feed-mills are turned 
out, as well as machinery for sawmills. They do a 
general job work, and have one of the largest 
brass foundries in the State. They have three en- 
gines, one one hundred and fifty horse power, the 
other forty horse power, and another eight horse 
power. Steady emplo.yment is given to two hun- 
dred skilled mechanics, and three competent sales- 
men are kept constantly on the road. Their feed- 
mills are sold bj- a Chicago Company, and car loads 
of their goods are shipped to all parts of the Uni- 
ted States. All orders trusted to this reliable firm 
are sure of receiving the personal supervison of 
Mr. McLain. 

August 3, 18G.5, he w.as married to Miss Ellen M. 
Tonner, daughter of John Tonner, a Pennsylvan- 
ian, who became a dry-goods merchant of Belle- 
fontaine, Ohio. From 1862 until his death, he was 
Secretary of the firm of Aultman & Co. of Canton. 
He passed from life in 1874, but his widow, who 
was formerly Miss Lydia Kramer, of Pennsylvania, 



survives him and resides in Canton. Mrs. McLain 
is the next to the youngest of nine children born 
to her parents, her native place being Bellefon- 
taine. She was educated at the Pittsl)urg Female 
College, and possessing a naturally fine mind, she 
did credit to hei'self and the institution. She lias 
borne her husband four children: Frank C, John 
E., Percy L., and Helen K., all of whom are intel- 
ligent, the sons being wide-awake and enterprising 
young business men. 

Mr. McLain is a Knight Templar, belongs to the 
Royal Arcanum, tl)e Ancient Order of United Work- 
men, and is a member of the Grand Army of the Re- 
public. In 1863, he was mustered into the Union ser- 
vice at Camp Chase, and was stationed at Coving- 
ton, Ky., during most of his service. He received 
his discharge in September, 1864, and returned 
home. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and 
has ever been very public-sjjirited. He has a lieau- 
tiful home at the corner of South and McLain 
Streets, and there a refined, generous and free- 
hearted hospitality is dispensed. 



'\f| ACOB RUDY, was born in Lancaster Coun- 
ty, Pa., December 17, 1808, the eldest child 
^-. born to George and Elizabeth Rudj', who 
(^g/ were also natives of the Kej'stone State. His 
career is but another example of what energy, in- 
dustry and perseverance, when intelligently ap- 
plied, will accomplish, for his enterprises resulted 
most satisfactorily. He was left motherless at the 
age of nine years, and from that time until he 
attained his majority he made his home with his 
maternal grandmother in Pennsylvania. He and 
his brother Isaac then came as far West as Darke 
County, Ohio, and after some time, leaving his 
brother there, Jacob pushed on to Stark County, 
and for two or three years thereafter made his 
home with an aunt at Uniontown. In the mean- 
time, he had, by prudence and foresight, saved 
enough means to enable him to purchase a small 
farm in Jackson Township, which he rented for 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



197 



one year, but the following year moved onto the 
place, his aunt, Catlierine Rudy, becoming his 
housekeeper. 

On the 31st of March, 1842, our subject mar- 
ried Miss Catherine Bachtel, who is still living, 
and they at once began housekeeping on the farm 
that he had purchased. At that time there were 
only about twenty acres under cultivation, on 
which was a large log house, and in this they lived 
until 18G9, when the house in which Mrs. Rudy 
now lives was erected. Mr. Rudy was a general 
farmer and stock-raiser, and everything about his 
place indicated to the beholder a thorough and 
progressive owner and a model farmer. lie was 
wide-awake on all questions pertaining to the 
agricultural interests of the county, and gave 
tliem such close attention that prior to his deatli 
he had become the owner of tivo hundred acres of 
land in Jackson Townsliip. 

PoliticiiUy, Mr. Rudy was a stanch Republican, 
and when necessar}" his vote and influence were 
cast in favor of the men and measures of that 
party. He was an Elder and was for many 3'ears 
a member of the Reformed Church, being an 
active worker in the cause of Christianit}^ not 
only in theory but also in practice, and used his 
means liberally in its support. He was well known 
for his generositj- and free-hearted ness, his life was 
full of kind deeds, and it can trulj' be said of 
him that lie never violated a friendship nor for- 
got a kind action done him. He was one of those 
who would that "the left hand should not know 
what the right hand doeth."' Such men as Mr. 
Rudy make model American citizens, and the 
world is better for their having lived. His wife 
was born in Jackson Township, Stark County, 
Ohio, December 10, 1823, a daughter of Samuel 
Bachtel, who was born in Washington County, 
Pa. His fatlier, Jacob Bachtel, is supi)osed to 
have also been born in Pennsylvania. 

Mrs. Rudy's mother was Elizabeth Leckron, a 
Pennsylvanian, and she and her husband were 
among the earlv pioneers of Stark County, Ohio. 
She died at about the age of seventy-two years, 
her husband having passed from life when about 
fifty years of age. Of three sons and four daugh- 
ters born to them, all grew to maturity, married 



and reared families, but only three are living at 
the present time: Margaret, wife of AVilliam 
Stover; Isaac .S., of Massillon, and Catherine, 
widow of Jacob Kudy. The latter was reared 
and educated in Jackson Township. By her mar- 
riage with Mr. Rudy she became the mother of two 
sons and two daughters: Ann Elizabeth, wife of Mar- 
tin Shafcr, of Jackson Township; Samuel B., who 
married Maggie Ream, of Gi'eentown, and died in 
1877; Marj- A., wife of Samuel P. Killinger, of 
Jackson Township; and Henry Clay, who married 
Ella Clark, and died in September, 1891. 



^^ti-^-i^l!^^ 



^l^ETER IIENSEL for a number 
I Jjj held an important place among t! 
^ f-'' pal farmers of Perry Township, 



of years 

the princi- 

where he 

I \ had valuable farming interests and was 
successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits. A 
native of this State, he was born June 18, 1828, in 
Stark Countv, and was the son of John Hensel, a 
native of Pennsylvania, and an early settler of 
this county. 

Our subject was reared to man's estate amid the 
pioneer scenes of Stark County, and received his 
education in the schools which were carried on 
near his home, and which were taught in log 
houses, furnished with rude slab seats that stood 
on wooden legs. Holes were bored on either side 
of the building, and a slab laid on the wooden pins 
inserted therein served as writing-desks for the 
larger scholars. 

Mr. Hensel of this sketch was married April 10, 
1851, to Sarah Stamm, who was born in Centre 
County, Pa.. December 10, 1837. She was a daugh- 
ter of Daniel and Sarah (Fromm) Stamm, and was 
an infant of twelvemonths when she was brought 
by her parents to this county. They were among 
the early settlers of Bethlehem Township, Mr. and 
Mrs. Stamm settling in the woods and making 
their home in a rude log cabin. The_y endured all 
the hardships of pioneer life and labored indus- 
triously tn place llieir farm under good cultiva- 



198 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



tion. Mrs. Hensel was one in a famil3' of tenchil- 
ilieii born to her paieiils, of whom three are liv- 
ing, her sisters being ^Irs. ]Mary C. Whistler and 
Mrs. Abraham Taylor. 

To our subject and his wife were born a 
farailj- of fonr children: Ira, Emanias, Catherine 
(Mrs. Austin Carap) and Harvey. Mr. Hensel de- 
parted this life October 2!), 1888, highly esteemed 
by all who knew him, and in his death Perry Town- 
ship lost one of her best citizens, and his family a 
loving father and husband. He was a Republican 
in politics and true to all the obligations imposed 
upon him as a man and a citizen. He was a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church and never wavered in 
his loyalt}- to that denomination. He was Deacon 
in the church and hallowed every social and relig- 
ious tie by a pure and upright life. 

At his death, Mr. Hensel left a valuable estate 
of two hundred and eighty acres, which was em- 
bellished with all the buildings which are to be 
found on a model farm, and all the accessories 
ill keeping witli the enterprise and progressive 
spirit of the owner. His life w-as a bus^' and useful 
one, well and worthily spent, and as such we are 
pleased to place his sketch before our readers. 



,T/_^ A:MAN BORDXER. Among the native-born 
Wji] citizens of IStark County, a goodly number 
/4Vj^ have turned their attention to the work of 
(^j tilling the soil, and to the stock-raising busi- 
ness, which forms so fitting an addition to ordinary 
farm work. Among tliis number in Perry Town- 
ship is the gentleman above named, who is pleas- 
antly located, and owns a tine farm of two hun- 
dred and forty-seven broad and fertile acres, and 
upon this estate a complete line of substantial and 
well-arranged Imildings ma^- be seen. Mr. Bord- 
iier has pursued his vocation in an intelligent 
manner, bringing to bear upon it the progressive 
spirit of the age and an energetic nature. 

Our subject, who was born in Bethlehem Town- 



ship, this county, September 8, 1829, is a son of 
John P. and Sarah Boidner. natives of Pennsylva- 
nia. The father of our subject emigrated from 
his native State to this county about 1822, just 
two yeai-s after the death of his father. He was a 
farmer and carpenter by occupation, and when 
ready to establish a home of his own, married 
Miss Sarah Bordner, and to them was born a fam- 
ily of thirteen children, of whom the following 
survive: .Tosiah .J., .lohn W.,Haraan, Harriet, Levi, 
Aaron, Daniel, William R., Maria, and .Toseph F. 
The wife and mother departed this life in 1876. 
Of the father's second marriage two sons were 
born, Wilson and Fremont. 

.John P. Bordner. when locating in this county, 
made his home in Bethlehem Township and set 
about the hard task of redeeming a portion of the 
soil from its primitive wildness. He endured all 
the privations to which the pioneer is subjected, 
and died at his home in Pike Township, whither 
he had removed a few years before his decease, in 
1878. After abandoning his trade, that of a car- 
penter, he followed farming for the remainder of 
his life and succeeded in accumulating a propertj-. 
In religious matters, he was identified with the 
German Reformed Church and was active in all 
good works of that body. 

Our subject was born in a log cabin iu Bethle- 
hem Township, where he was reared to man's es- 
tate. Like other farmer lads, he received his early 
education iu the district schools of hislocalitj'and 
later attended the public schools, thus receiving a 
good practical education. March 25, 18.54, he 
married Miss Lydia, daughter of Jacob and Mary 
Kiddinger, the latter of whom makes her home 
with our subject. Mrs. Bondner was born iu Penn- 
sylvania, and by her union with our subject has 
became the mother of two children. Samantha (Mrs. 
Hiram Clay) and Franklin J. 

In the spring of 1854, Mr. Bordner began farm- 
ing on rented land in Pike Township, which he 
continued to operate for two j'ears, then removed 
to Peny Township, and later to Canton Town- 
ship, where he was similarly- engaged for ten years. 
The first property of which our subject became 
the owner was eighty acres of his present farm, 
upon which he erected a log cabin. In 1880, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



201 



liowever, this rude structure gave way to a hand- 
some brick residence which is well furnished 
throughout. He has added hy subsequent pur- 
cliases to his farm until it now comprises two hun- 
dred and forty-seven acres of valuable land, and 
besides this jiroperty he is the proprietor of eighty- 
five acres in Jackson Township. He is an upright 
man, straightforward in all his dealings, and is 
obliging and kind in ail his relations with his 
neighbors and those with whom he comes in con- 
tact. His present high standing in the agricultural 
community is largely due to the aid and advice of 
his excellent wife, who has been a true helpmate 
to him by her prudence in the management of 
household affairs and loving sympathy. His in- 
terest in school matters has resulted in his serv- 
ing as Director for some time, but although solic- 
ited to hold some political otHces, has alw.ays re- 
fused to do so. 

In addition to raising the cereals, Mr. Bordner 
breeds Short-horn, Jersey and Guernsey cattle, 
making a specialty of the latter breed. He also 
raises Poland-China hogs, and altogetiier has won 
a most enviable reputation as a farmer in this lo- 
calit}'. In his political relation, he is a conspicu- 
ous figure in the ranks of the Democratic party 
and has hosts of friends in the communit}- where 
he is so well known. AVith his family', he is a mem- 
ber of the English Reformed Church, in which 
body he is serving as Elder. He is looked upon 
as one of the influential members of society, his 
education, good breeding and honorable character 
giving him weight in the community. 



l^-^^ 



■jlf OHN M. ANDERSON. In this volume may 
be found biographies of many influential 
citizens who have plodded up the steeps of 
honor and prosperity with remarkable en- 
ergy and success. The life of Mr. Anderson fur- 
nishes a good example of this kind. He is now 
the owner of a good farm in Tuscarawas Town- 
ship, and thereon is devoting his energies to 



agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. Progres- 
sive in every waj-, he is known in this .section as 
one of the well-to-do and prominent farmers. 

A native of this county, our subject was born 
November 6, 1842, a son of Samuel and Sarah J. 
(McDowell) Anderson. The father, who also 
was born in this eotuity, was a son of David M. 
Anderson, who was one of the very earliest settlers 
in this State. The paternal grandfather was one 
of a famil}' of four children, as follows: Mary E., 
who married .1. G. Dague; David M., John M. and 
Samantha J. Samuel, the father, was a shrewd 
and capable business man and was frequently se- 
lected to fill some public position, such as that of 
Township Trustee, the duties of which were faith- 
fully and conscientiously discharged. In all the 
country there was no more ardent and consistent 
Republican, and no man of better impulses and 
stricter integrity than he. He was one of the 
prominent members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Dalton, in which denomination he 
served as Ellder. His death, which occurred June 
17, 1887, was the result of heart disease. His 
widow survived him for some years and dei)artcd 
this life February 6, 1892. 

John M. Anderson of this sketch has alwa3-s 
resided in this county and during the early days 
did his full share of pioneer work in assisting his 
father to redeem his farm from what was then a 
wilderness. Like other farmer lads, he was given 
a fair education in the district schools, and being 
an apt pupil and desirous of gaining a good 
knowledge of books, he made the best of his op- 
portunities and is to-day one of the well-educated 
men of this county. 

In 1864, he became a member of the Guard 
Company, which was organized at Dalton for the 
defense of the State, and later was sent to Wash- 
ington, D. C, where, with his comrades, he assisted 
in guarding Ft. Ethan Allen, where he remained 
for some three months and was then honorably 
discharged. February 7 of the following year he 
was united in marriage with Miss Sarah J., daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Mary Doll, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania. Of the three children born to them, Samuel 
W. is deceased. Those surviving are Mary F. 
(Mrs. Eli Mock) and Harvey AV. 



202 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Mr. Anderson owns sixty acres of well culti- 
vated land, and witli his wife is a regular attend- 
dant and devoted member of the Presbyterian 
Church. In politics, he is a stalwart Republican, 
and with his family is highly esteemed in social 
circles, and at his hospitable home is wont to en- 
tertain many friends. 



?)HOMAS SCHREFFLER. Among the pio- 
ff^'^ neers and substantial farmers of this county 
-i^^' this gentleman is numbered. He began life 
empty-handed, but bj' unremitting industrj-, sec- 
onded by sound judgment and shrewd business 
faculties, he has acquired wealth, and is the pro- 
prietor of a fine farm in Bethlehem Township. A 
native of Penns^ylvania, he was born in Dauphin 
County, November 14, 1817, and is a son of Con- 
rad and Catherine (Bordner) Schreffler, natives 
respectively of Berks and Dauphin Counties, Pa. 

The father of our subject was a soldier in the 
War of 1812, and in the spring of 1837, with liis 
parents, emigrated to this county and lived for one 
year on a farm in Pike Township. After residing 
in Perry Township one year thereafter, the family 
took up their abode in Bethlehem Township, where 
our subject was reared to man's estate. Here 
3'oung Thomas assisted his father in cultivating 
tlieir new farm, and hence may bo considered one 
of the early settlers of this county. His educa- 
tion was received in the common schools of the 
district in his native State, where lie acquired a 
good practical knowledge. 

Miss Catherine, daughter of Daniel Snyder, an 
early settler of tliis township, became the wife of 
our subject in 1843. Seven of the eight children 
born to them are living and bear the respecJtive 
names of Solomon, .John, Conrad, .lames, Parcilla, 
Annie and Malinda; .lefferson is deceased. Mr. 
Schreffler is one of the self-made men, as he started 
out in life witli no means whatever, and by hard 
work and ck)se economy has placed liimself among 
the wealthy farmers of this part of the count3'. 



Ho now owns two hundred and twenty-five acres 
of good farming land which is well-stocked, and 
from Ills agricultural interests he derives a hand- 
some income. 

Mr. Schreffler is well informed regarding general 
topics, and having weighed the political questions 
of the day has identified himself with the Demo- 
cratic party. He is popular in local affairs and 
served his district as School Director for a number 
of years. With his wife, he is a regular attendant 
at the Lutheran Church, of which they are mem- 
bers and looked upon with respect by all who 
know them. Our subject is a member of the 
Grange at Navarre, and himself and wife are val- 
ued members of the community. Their home is re- 
plete with every comfort that one could desire, and 
their social and moral qualities have won them 
many friends during the number of years which 
they have resided liere, and have made them an 
influence for niueli good in social and religious 
matters. 



MASA BAILEY has made farming his 
@1LJI principal occupation, and that he has been 
successful, is attested by tlie appearance of 
his fine and well-managed farm, with its 
many valuable improvements, in Perry Township. 
He is a native of Massillon, his birth occurring 
November 14, 1830. He is the son of Amasa, Sr., 
and Sarah (Eaton) Bailey, natives of Massachu- 
setts. His father, who was a soldier in the War of 
1812, emigrated in 1814 to Cleveland, this State, 
the journey from Massachusetts to the Forest Citv 
consuming six weeks. There the elder Mr. Bailey 
resided until 1825, following his trade of a harness 
and saddle maker. At the expiration of tli.at time, 
he went to Akron, where he was similarlj- em- 
ployed until his advent into this county in 1826. 
On making his home in this section, the father 
of our subject located in what is now the Fourth 
AVard of Massillon, whence he removed to the farm 
which is the present property of our subject, set- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 



203 



tling upon the place when it bore but little sem- 
blance to its now prosperous condition. lie was a 
truthful, upright, iionorable man, and his citizen- 
ship was creditable to his adopted township. He 
took a great interest in whatever concerned his 
community, and departed this life December 14, 
1873. He was followed to the better land four 
years later b_y his wife, who died December 29, 
1877. They were the parents of a large family of 
children, only two of whom are surviving: Mrs. 
Mary A. Brown and our subject. The father gave 
his earnest support to the Republican party, and 
in his death the county lost one of its best citi- 
zens. 

Aniasa Bailey, of this sketch, was reared to man's 
estate in this county, and has done much pioneer 
work. He received his education in the log schools 
of that earl3' period, and making the best of his 
limited opportunities, is to-day a well-read and in- 
telligent gentleman. He was married February 
22, 1870, to Miss Eleanor Jones, who was born in 
Berks County, Pa., January 1, 1837, aud is the 
daughter of Peter aud Elizabeth (Wann) Jones, 
also natives of the Keystone State. In 1844, Mrs. 
Bailey accompanied her parents on their removal 
to this county, the journey being made overland 
with teams. They made their home in what is 
now the Fourth Ward of Massillon, where the par- 
ents died. Tiiey had a family of four children: 
Joanna, Mrs. Thomas J.Hill; Elizabeth, the widow 
of Peter Hill; Mrs. Bailey; and Hannah, the wife 
of Nathan Moles. 

To our subject and his estimable wife has been 
torn a family of two children, James II., who is 
deceased, and Warren R. Mr. Bailey is the pro- 
prietor of ninety-eight and one-half acres of valu- 
able land, which compares favorably with other 
farms in this vicinit}- in point of cultivation and 
improvement. He and his family are quietly en- 
joying the comforts of life that they have gathered 
around them, and are kindly, hospitable people, 
and much esteemed members of society. 

Our subject, in his political relations, always 
casts a straight Republican vote, is ever ready in a 
(piiet way to advance the interests of his party, 
but never makes himself conspicuous by seeking 
political honors. Socially, he is a member of 



Perry Grange at Massillon, with whose affairs he 
has been actively identified since joining it. The 
father of Mrs. Bailey died in 1885, when in his 
eighty-sixth 3'car, and her n:otlier, who was a de- 
voted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
died in 1873. 



^^ AMUEL II. BAIUHIMAN owns and occu- 
^^^ pies a farm of two hundred and forty- 
4\^=^ nine acres in Sugar Creek Township, 
where the work of his hands is plainly 
indicated by its present condition. The property 
bears the usual improvements made bj' a man of 
enterprising spirit and good judgment, and pre- 
sents an appearance of home comfort attractive 
to the passer-by. Having come here when twenty 
years of age, Mr. Baughman knows much of the 
history of this part of the State, and has done his 
share in clearing and opening up the new coun- 
try for those who should come after. He deserves 
great credit for the manner in which he has 
fought the battle of life, as he began his personal 
career with an extremely' limited capital and little 
book knowledge. By dint of good habits and 
firm principles, he has won his way to a jjosition 
of worldl}' prosperity, and gained the esteem of 
his associates while so doing. 

Born in Cumberland County, Pa., August 15, 
1815, our subject is the son of John and Mar- 
garet Baughman, who were also born in the Key- 
stone State. The father, who occujned a good 
position among his fellow-citizens, is said to have 
been a soldier in the War of 1812. Samuel H. 
was a young man of twenty years when he accom- 
panied his parents and other members of the fam- 
ily to this counl^', and with them located upon 
a raw tract of land in Tuscarawas Township, which 
is now the property of his brother, David II. 
They resided for a time m a log cabin and were 
among the early ])ioneers of the count}- aud town- 
ship. Of the parental family, the following chil- 
dren survive: Pollen, who makes her home in 



204 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Indiana; Margaret, Mrs. Philip Bretz, of Summit 
County, this State; Samuel II., our subject; Sallie 
A., now the widow of Lewis Lessig, and David II. 

When read}' to choose a vocation in life, young 
Baughnian began as an agriculturist, which occu- 
pation he has always followed, and the success 
which he has met with in the prosecution of his 
calling and the accumulation of property is com- 
mendable, as he is one of those who began at the 
ver^- foundation of worldly affairs. He attended 
the pioneer schools of the township where he 
lived, and which were taught in a rude log house 
heated by an open fireplace. As soon as large 
enougli, his services were required on the farm, 
and he tluis received a thorough training in the 
business in which he has been so successful. 

The marriage of Mr. Baughman and Miss Eliz- 
abeth Smith was solemnized July 30, 1846. Mrs. 
Baughman is also a uative of Stark Country and the 
daughter of .lacob Smith, an early settler in Sugar 
Creek Township. She is one of those who be- 
lieve that a wife and mother should keep up her 
interest in those things in which her family is in- 
terested and not allow the cares of housekeeping 
to occupy her entire thought. She therefore pos- 
sesses a considerable fund of information and has 
her own opinions regarding public affairs and the 
events that are transpiring. Their two children 
who are living arc Samuel D., who married Amelia 
Harrold, and has two sons: Thom.as and John 
W. Benjamin P., the second child of our sub- 
ject, married Mary Blocher. Those deceased in 
the parental family are John and Lewis. 

The two hundred and forty-nine acres of land 
of which Mr. Baughman is the proprietor have been 
improved with every, building necessary for the 
carrying on of farm work, and by being prop- 
erly- cultivated bring their owner a handsome in- 
come. Although Mr. Baughman has never sought 
office, he has served as Trustee of Sugar Creek 
Township for a number of years, and no member 
of the community stands higher in the opinion of 
his fellow-citizens than he. He is gieatly inter- 
ested in school affairs and has done much to ad- 
vance their standard in this county. He is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in 
which he has held the office of Trustee, and as a 



charitable and benevolent man, he is ever rea d 
to extend a helping hand to those in need of as- 
sistance, and has thus won many friends, who 
esteem him hjo-hlv for his sterling worth. 



^^- 



"jfl OHN J. ZAISEH. A prominent position 
among the business men of Canton has for 
many years been occupied b}' the gentleman 
with whose name we introduce this sketch, 
and who is a successful contractor and builder. In 
addition, he is engaged as a dealer in wire office 
and desk railings, window guards, etc., and has re- 
cently added another feature to his business, viz., 
cement, flour and feed. As may be imagined, he 
is a bus^- man, and besides other enterprises in 
which he is interested, he superintends the man- 
agement of his farm of one hundred and seven 
acres, located eight miles from the city of Canton, 
in charge of a tenant. 

A native of Lexington Township, Stark County, 
Mr. Zaiser was born October 30, 1843. His par- 
ents, John M. and Elizabeth (Schuler) Zaiser, were 
natives of German}', whence they emigrated to the 
United States in their youth, and were united in 
marriage in Stark County. The father learned the 
trade of a tailor in Germany, and was thus en- 
gaged until his death, his farm in Lexington Town- 
ship being managed by his sons. Of his first mar- 
riage, seven children were born, four of whom still 
survive, namely: Elizabeth, wife of Godfred 
Drayer; Jacob P., now Justice of the Peace in 
Lexingtou Township; Margaret, wife of John 
Fogle; and our subject. Of the second marriage 
of John M. Zaiser there were also seven children 
born, six of whom are now living, as follows: 
Sarah, Carrie, Rosina, Michael A., William and 
Pauline. 

Until he was eighteen 3'ears of age, our subject 
remained on the home farm, receiving his educa- 
tion in the common schools of the district, wiiich 
he attended during the winter months prior to the 
age of fourteen. He enlisted July 9, 1862, and 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



205 



was mustered into service August 14tli following, 
as a member of Company F, One Hundred and 
Fifteentli Ohio Infantrw He served in the Fed- 
eral army until December 4, 1864, when he was 
captured near Nashville, Tenn., and taken to An- 
dersonville. About one o'clock on April 1, 1865, 
he was exchanged in the rear of Yicksburg, where 
he lay in camp twentj-four daj's. 

Taking passage on the steamer '-Sultana," Mr. 
Zaiser reached the group of islands ten miles nortli 
of Memphis at 2 o'clock a. m., at which time tlie 
" Sultana " exploded, and, taking fire, was totally 
destroyed. ^Ir. Zaiser was in the water about six 
hours, when he was rescued, taken to Memphis, and 
furnished necessary articles of clothing. Thence 
he was sent to Camp Chase, Ohio, and ten days 
later was discharged by order of tlie War Depait- 
ment, June 20, I860. 

Upon his return home, Mr. Zaiser engaged at his 
trade of a carpenter, serving an apprenticeship, 
and afterward working as a journe3'mau for about 
three years. In 1868, he commenced to operate as 
a contractor, and since that time has built a large 
number of the finest residences in Canton. He 
took the $30,000 contract for the Grand Opera 
House; a 120,000 contract for the Duber Avenue 
Schoolhouse, besides erecting the elegant residence 
of James E. Dougherty on South Cleveland Ave- 
nue, and the attractive home of John Kraus, on 
East Tuscarawas Street. In addition, he took the 
contract for the $20,000 school building erected in 
Salem, Ohio, and the $14,000 depot for tlifi Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. He is widely known 
as one of the best contractors in Ohio, and has 
gained an enviable reputation in business circles. 

The pleasant residence at No. 420 East Tuscara- 
was Street, in which Mr. Zaiser makes his home, is 
presided over b3- a lady of culture who, prior to 
becoming his wife, was Miss Lizetta Harding. She 
was born in l^ancaster County, Pa., and removed 
thence to the Buckeye State, where her marriage 
took place November 26, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Zai- 
ser have had five children, four of whom are 
now living, namely: Lione A., Harvey' W., Inez 
E., and Irene A. Mrs. Zaiser and the three 
eldest children are members of the First Method- 
ist Church of Canton, Socially, Mr. Zaiser is 



identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fel- 
lows. The position occupied by his family is one 
of [)rominence in the social circles of the city and 
the3' are numbered among the best jjcoph- in the 
coramunitv. 



mmum^^^^m^ 



^OHN WILLIS, President of the Willis & 
Liud Lumber Companj^, Canton, Ohio. Of 
the various enterprises that have made Can- 
ton one of the commercial centers of the 
State, the lumber trade has alwaj's held an import- 
ant place, employing large capital in its conduct, 
and giving to cognate industries a decided impetus 
li_y the energy and ability displayed in its develop- 
ment. In every department the enterprise char- 
acteristic of its leading exponents has been abun- 
dantly shown, and the rtourishing character of their 
establishments amply demonstrate the vigorous 
grasp with which they have seized and lield the 
trade in this gigantic industry. Among the most 
active, enterprising firms engaged in this line is the 
Willis & Lind Lumber Co., of Canton, Ohio", man- 
ufacturers of sash, door, blind, stairs, building mate- 
rial, saloon fixtures, mantels, and all kinds of hard- 
wood finish. The plant is located on East Eighth 
Street and the buildings are first-class and well ad- 
apted for the business. The machinery is of the 
latest and best make and the company employs at 
all times from forty to sixty men. The machinery 
is run by a hundred and twenty-five horse power 
engine. This company has a large local trade, 
but ships largely to the cities throughout the 
United States. 

]Mr. Willis, who is President of this mammoth es- 
tablishment, is a native of the Green Isle of Erin, 
born in the city of Belfast, March 17, 1830, and is 
the seventh in order of birth of eleven children born 
to the marriage of Philip and Isabel (McLean) 
Willis, both natives of Cilasgow, Scotland. When 
nine years of age, (nir subject was left without the 
guidance and care of a father, the latter having 
died in 1839, and oiu- subject attended the schools 



20fi 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of the city, where he was thoroughly drilled in book 
learning. He remained at Montgomery Castle un- 
til the age of fourteen years, when he was appren- 
ticed to learn the carpenter's trade, serving five 
years. During that time he attended night school, 
and complctijg his trade, traveled as a journeyman, 
visiting different towns and cities in his native 
country. On the 6th of April, 1853, he sailed 
for the United States on the vessel, "Zion's Hope," 
bound for New York City. On his arrival he di- 
rected his steps to the Buckeye State and located in 
New Philadelphia, where he worked at his trade one 
season. In the following fall he came to Mass- 
illon, this State, and worked in a door and sash fac- 
tory for two years for tlie firm of Mong d' Snyder. 
After this he was in the employ of Russell tt Com- 
pany', manufacturers of threshing-machines, and lie 
continued with that company for six years. In 
1861, he came to Canton and was emploj'ed by C. 
Aultman it Company, in the wood department, re- 
maining three years. In 1861, he with others was 
ordered out in a company known as the "Squirrel 
Hunters," and was on guard duty. At tiie expira- 
tion uf one hundred daj's he was regularly mus- 
tered in and rendered faithful service to his coun- 
try. 

In the year 1864 he started in business on his 
own iesponsibilit_v and operated a sash and door 
factory and also handled lumber. Two years later, 
he took Geoi'ge Gremminger as partner, under the 
firm name of Willis & Gremminger, but this partner- 
shij) was of short duration. Mr. Benskiu purchased 
in May, 1861, the interest of Mr. Gremminger and 
the firm name was then changed to Willis A- 
Benskin. 

This firm later took in .loseph AVeaver and John 
Kaley, when the name was changed to Willis, Ben- 
skin, AVeaver & Kaley, and continued thus a few 
years. Then !Mr. Willis purchased the entire inter- 
est and soon after took in Charles Lind as partner. 

This eonlinued until 18;)1, when the business was 
merged into a stock company with the following; 
ottieers: John AVillis, President; Charles Lind,'\'ice- 
president; (iranl B. Willis, Secretary and Treasurer; 
and Lincoln K.Willis, Foreman and Suiierintendent. 
In IS.ot, Mr. Willis led to the altar Miss ]\Iary Ann 
Benskiu, a native of England but wiio was residing 



in Massillon at the time of her marriage. They 
are the parents of an interesting family of ten chil- 
dren, seven daughters and three sons, eight of whom 
survive at the present time. Mr. AV^illis has lieen 
a prominent Mason since his twenty-first year and 
is a member of Canton Lodge No. 60, F. & A. M. In 
politics, he is a Republican and his first Presidential 
vote was cast for Col. JohnC. Fremont and his last 
for Benjainau Harrison in 1888. Mr. AViliis resides 
at No. 214 AVest Seventh Street. 



^/AAIES II. CONKELL. Probably in the his- 
tory of the representative houses of Can- 
ton, there can be found no more striking 
example of what may be accomplished by 
industry and judgment than is exemplified 113' the 
Canton Monument & Mantel Comijany at Nos. 10 
it 12 East Seventh Street. The Superintendent 
of this ttourishing enterprise, to whom its success 
is princi)jally due. is the suliject of this sketch. A 
native of Ohio, he w.as born in Jefferson County, 
July 12, 1847. llis parents, John AA^. and Sarah J. 
(Lawson) Conkell, were natives respeetively of 
Prussia and Pennsylvania. 

The father of our subject learned the trade of a 
shoemaker in his native land, whence he emigrated 
to America in his boyhood, and settled in Penn- 
sylvania. He was there married, and when his 
only child wiis one year old he died, in 1848, 
mourned by his large circle of friends. The 
mother survived a nunibei- of years, passing away 
in 1864. Left fatherless when a mere infant, our 
subject was reared by his mother, and in his child- 
hood attended the common schools near Toronto, 
Ohio. After leaving school, he learned the trade 
of a marble-cutter at Ravenna, this State, and at 
the expiration of his apprenticeshii> he worked as 
a " jour " for two years. 

In the fall of 1867, Mr. Conkell came to Can- 
ton, and twt) years later commenced in liusiness 
for himself. In 18711, in connection with another 
gentleman, he organized the Canton Monument 



PORTRAIT AND BIOORAPHICAL RECORD. 



207 



& Mantel Company, and in 1891 purchased the 
interest of his partner, since which time the busi- 
ness has been conducted under his management. 
The company deals in marble and granite monu- 
ments, wood and slate mantels, plain and fancy 
brass grates, tile hearths and facings, door tiling, 
etc., and is the exclusive agent for the celebrated 
Wellnian Grate. Mr. Conkell is a practical busi- 
ness man, having been engaged as a marble-cutter 
since his boyhood, and has an established reputa- 
tion as a man of excellent judgment. He makes 
a specialty of tlie monument business, and carries 
a full line of the finest monuments in the citj'. 

A very important event in the life of Mr. Con- 
kell was his marriage, which was solemnized De- 
cember 2, 1868, when Miss Ida Patterson, of Can- 
ton, became his wife. She is a lady of great 
nobility' of character and kindness of heart, and is 
highlj' esteemed in the social circles of Canton. 
Six children have been born to the union: Wil- 
son, Etta, Kate, James, Lulu and Frank. A sin- 
cere Christian, Mr. Conkell is identified with the 
First Methodist Episcopal Chuicii of Canton, and 
contributes liljerally of liis means to the promo- 
tion of religious and philanthropic enterprises. 



|R^EV. JOHN M()R(;AN THOMAS, of AUi- 
^v ^"^^' ^'^^^ ''oi''i i'l the County of Carmar- 
dvfli then. South AVales, in the j-ear 1825. His 
entire life has been devoted to the ministry. 
He united with the Congregational Church in 
his fourteenth year, and was soon encouraged 
to preach. He acquired his education under pe- 
culiar difliculties, but by determination completed 
the course, and was called to the pastorate of the 
Congregational Church in filynneath, Glamorgan- 
shire, in the year 1846. 

In 1849, Mr. Thomas emigrated to America, and 
accepted a call from the Broome Street Congrega- 
tional Cluii-ch of New York City. In 1850, he re- 
turned to his native land to wed the lady to 



whom his troth had been plighted. Miss Sarah P. 
James, of Lanover, Monmouthshire. She has been 
his faithful wife and con)i)anion for forty-two 
years. Hand and hand, they have traveled life's 
jouiney together, sharing with each other its joys 
and sorrows, its adversity and i)rosperity. 

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thomas were born seven 
children, who were reared in the fear of God and 
thoroughly equipped for the battles and resiionsi- 
biiitiesof life. The eldest. Dr. J. J., of Youngs- 
town, is a graduate of Jefferson College, Phila- 
delphia, and is highly esteemed as a skillful physi- 
cian and a valuable citizen; Rev. W. A. is a gradu- 
ate of Mt. Union College and the Yale Theolog- 
ical Seminary, and is now pastor of the Congrega- 
tional Church of Jlilford, N. H.; Katie, who was 
educated in Ironton, Ohio, is the wife of Rev. 
I. M. Parker, of New York City; Clara Fremont, 
a graduate of the Alliance High School, is the wife 
of A. D. Brosins, agent for the Adams Express 
Company in AV'ooster, Ohio; Agnes Lincoln, a 
graduate of Mt. Union College and of the School of 
Elocution and Oratory of Philadelphia, is the wife 
of R.C.Morris, of Greenville, 111.; Anna Brace, who 
was graduated from the Alliance High School, and 
was employed as a teacher, died August 19, 1892 
and Alice Claudia, who was graduated from the 
Alliance High School, and w.as appointed to fill 
her sister's place. 

Rev. Mr. Thomas has been a laborious and suc- 
cessful minister for forty-six years, preaching Welsh 
and English nearly all the time. He iias filled 
several of the most prominent pastorates in this 
country, such as Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Gomer, 
etc. lie has always been an enthusiastic lover of 
American institutions, excepting slavery, from 
the beginning, and has given his s^-mpatliy and 
confidence to the Republican |)arty from its ince[)- 
tion. He took part in the AVar of the Rebellion, 
enlisting early in 1861, and was commissioned 
Chaplain of the Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania 
Infantry, and also the One Hundred and Fift}-- 
fifth in the same State. He is a member of the 
John C. Fremont Post No. 729, G. A. R., of Alli- 
ance. An ardent lover of music, poetry, and litera- 
ture, he is also the author of a number of songs 
published and unpublished, and has been a success- 



208 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



fill essaj'ist in the Welsh Eisleddfodan. He is 
now relieved of the cares and anxieties of a regu- 
lar pastorate, but by request preaches almost every 
Sunday. For the last sixteen years, he has been a 
resident of Alliance, and has proved himself a 
valuable citizen bj- the aid he has given in up- 
buildina its morality. 



■ ' ^a- 



^OHN' J. ASHENHl'RST. The Silver Ash 
Institute, of which this gentleman is the 
founder, was organized at Alliance for the 
purpose of curing inebriates and those suf- 
fering from the opium habit. It has pioved success- 
ful beyond a doubt, and although organized but a 
short time, has cured over a hundred and thirty 
men up to the time of this publication. Recogniz- 
ing the liquor traffic as the giant evil of the day, 
Mr. Ashenhurst endeavors in everyway possible to 
tight its influence and secure its downfall. His 
has been, and is, an active life, and his services in 
behalf of fallen humanity entitle him to the higli- 
est regard of all. 

A log cabin near Wheeling, Ya., was the early 
home of Mr. Ashenhurst, and there he was born 
October 29, 1848, the son of the Rev. J. Y. and 
Martha (Johnson) Ashenhurst. Mis father w.-is a 
miuister in what is now the United Presbyterian 
Church, and he was also a strong Abolitionist. 
With the courage of his convictious, he accepted 
the position of elector on the Birney ticket in the 
slave State of Yirginia in 1844. Ten years later, he 
removed to Ohio, where for two years he was pas- 
tor of the United Presbyterian Church at Dalton, 
W.ayne County. His next charge was at Hayes- 
ville, Ashland County, where he remained for some 
time. He was a man of broad knowledge, earnest 
piety and deep consecration to his chosen work as 
a minister of the Gospel. He is now residing near 
Bcllaire. Ohio. 

Hayesville being the scat of \'ermillion Insti- 
tute, Jlr. Ashenhurst took advantage of the edu- 
cational facilities offered by that school and gained 



a practical knowledge of the studies there taught. 
He contributed to the slender purse of the poorly- 
paid minister by working on a farm, clerking in a 
store and teaching school. When fifteen years old, 
he became the owner of an amateur printing press, 
and it was not long before he issued the first number 
of his paper, the Hayesville ChronkJp. Some years 
afterward, he entered the ofHce of the Ashland 
r/mes, and there served an apprenticeship to learn 
the trade of a printer. Soon after entering the 
office, he was requested by the editor to write up 
the local column, and his work was so satisfactory 
that he was afterward recognized as the local 
editor. 

In 18()H. when the ProhiliitiDU i)arty w,as first 
organized in Ohio, ^Ir. Ashenhurst joined the new 
movement, to which he has ever since adhered. 
Although not then old enough to have the elective 
franchise, he nevertheless -'took the stump" and 
made speeches in behalf of the Prohibition nomi- 
nee for Governor. In 1872, he started the Ohio 
Valley Heirs at jMartin's Ferry, a paper which he 
published for two years and which was the organ 
of his chosen party in that section of country. In 
1876, he was appointed by the Freedmen's Mission 
Board of the United Presbyterian Cliurch to go to 
Southern Yirginia and organize a school for the 
freedmen. In that way he was successfully en- 
gaged for four years, and meanwhile superintended 
the construction of the buildings which comprise 
Thyue Institute, at Chase City, Ya. 

During the fall of 1880, Mr. Ashenhurst returned 
to the Buckeye State.where he was for two years edi- 
tor of the Freeport Prexs. In 1882, he was invited 
toassume the editorship of the Wayne County Herald 
at Wooster, which under Mr. Ashenhurst's able 
nianagement'became the most influential Proliibi- 
tion count}' paper in the United States. In 1888, 
he went to Omaha, Neb., where he accepted a po- 
sition on the Midland, a denominational paper 
published in the interest of tiie United Presbyte- 
rian Church. After spending one and one-half 
years there, he returned to Ohio and located in 
Canton, where he commenced the publication of 
the Canton Lead*:)'. 

In the Prohibition part}-, Mr. Ashenhurst has 
always been very prominent. He has twice been 




Hon. Samuel Krider 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



211 



their nominee for Congress, and .June 11, 1881, was 
selected by the Prohibition convention at Spring- 
fiekl, Oiiio, as their candidate for Governor of the 
State. He made a splendid canvass, and although 
in each case he entered the field at great personal 
sacrifice, he traveled over the State and held many 
meetings, the result being that he received the 
support of man^- of those who believe the success 
of a principle of more importance than the triumph 
of a |)arty. A man of ability and courage, he rec- 
ognizes the issues of the day with a clearness 
gained by extensive reading and close investig.i- 
tion. He is in line with the persevering, enter- 
prising citizens who are striving to promote the 
welfare of this country, and is a splendid repre- 
sentation of the best culture and purest civiliza- 
tion of the land. 

Mr. Ashenhurst was married March 18, 1874. to 
Miss Alice Ida, daughter of the Rev. Jesse Steiner, 
of Ashland, Ohio, minister of the Reformed Church. 
They have had born to them three childien: Har- 
old S., Florence and Alice. The pleasant home 
of this family is located at No. 78 North Cleve- 
land Avenue, Canton. 



-^^- 



ON. SAMUEL KRIDER was not only well 
known in Tuscarawas Township and the 
vicinity roundabout, but his name is famil- 
iar to those in other parts of the State who 
are interested in civic affairs and acquainted with 
the legislative work of the State. His later years 
were passed on a beautiful farm on section 24 of 
the above-named township, where many conven- 
iences were to be found, including a lu)ni('-!ike 
dwelling, which sheltered a happy fannl\-. 

Mr. Krider was a native of Franklin County, 
Pa., a son of George and Fannie (Hoover) Krider, 
and vyas born January 2.3, 1811. His ancestors on 
his paternal side were Germans, wiiile those on 
his maternal side were Swiss. In 1819, young 
Krider accompanied his parents on their removal 
to this county and lo'cated on a farm in Tusca- 
10 



rawas Township, where he resided until his 
eighteenth year, in the meantime having gained a 
good education in the district schools. Return- 
ing to Chambersburgh, Pa., he learned the trade of 
a tailor, and remained there until 1832, when he 
again took up his abode in the Buckeye State and 
carried on his trade .as journeyman tailor for some 
time. 

The wife of Mr. Krider, whom he married No- 
vember 26, 1835, bore the maiden name of Anna 
Augustine; she was born in this township, January 
y, 181i), and is the daughter of Andrew and 
Elizabeth (Shisser) Augustine, who came to this 
county as early as 1809. Her father was the first 
Land Appraiser of the township, and exerted a 
considerable influence in the community where he 
resided many years and of which he was an 
honored member. One of his daughters, Miss 
Rebecca, who was born in 1810, was the first white 
child born within the limits of Tuscarawas Town- 
ship. Mr. Augustine was the father of a family of 
eight children, of whom the four living are: 
Amanda, the widow of Benjamin Bowman; Mrs. 
Krider; AVilliam, who resides in Sugar Creek 
Township, and Mary, now Mrs. John Mobly. The 
parents of these children died within a week of 
each other from cholera, in 1834. 

The father of our subject was one in a family of 
nine children, three of whom are deceased. Those 
living are: Samuel, Jeremiah, Benjamin, John B., 
Abraham H. and Solomon. Our subject, in the 
spring of 1836, located on the place where his 
widow now resides, and carried on the trade of a 
tailor luilil his decease. His advantages educa- 
tionally and otherwise were limited, as his parents 
were poor, and he was early set to work to assist 
in the Inbors of the farm. The country round- 
aliont was sparsely- inhabited and was mostly 
covered with the primeval forests, in which game 
abounded, and hard pioneer labor was necessaiy 
before Ihe homestead which his father purchased 
could be placed under proper improvement. 

The tliree children born to Mr. and Mr. Krider 
arc: Benjamin F., who makes his home in Indiana; 
Charles A., the present Sheriff of Stark County, 
and Silas W., who is deceased. Our subject is a 
supiiorter of Democratic principles, and for many 



212 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



years aided in the upbuilding of his county. He 
was one of the organizers of the Stark County 
Agricultural Society, which he has served in the 
capacity of Director. For over a quarter of a 
century he was the incumbent of the office of 
Justice of the Peace, and was numbered for many 
years among the representative and most valued 
citizens of Stark County, where his upright life 
and probity were everywhere recognized. 

The Hon. Samuel Krider served two terms in 
the Forty-ninth and Fiftieth Ohio General As- 
sembly, during which time he was active in push- 
ing through many important bills. He was a 
prominent member of the Reformed Church and 
took a leading part in various laudable enterprises, 
being always found ready to do his dutj' in secur- 
ing the future good of the community. His pop- 
ularity extended much beyond the limits of the 
county, and his genial, cordial manners gained for 
him the friendship of all with whom he was asso- 
ciated, either in a business or social way. He 
departed this life in June, 1892, greatly mourned 
133- friends who were as numerous as his acquaint- 
ances. 



[yt-^ ON. J0SP:PH FREASE, attorney -al-law. 

iTjl The Bar of Stark County, Ohio, has been 
/^^ strengthened by the addition to it of many 

1^^ able advocates and counselors, and none 
are more worthy of notice than Hon. Joseph 
Frease. lie was born' in Somerset County. Pa., 
May 19, 1827, to Joel and Elizabeth (Field) 
Frease, the former of whom was of German de- 
scent, but a native of the Old Dominion, where he 
was born in 1786. He was a blacksmith by trade, 
and did honor to the calling. His wife first saw 
the light of day in York County, Pa., in the 
year 1793, and was married in Somerset County. 
About the year 1830, they came to Stark County, 
Ohio, and on a farm in Sugar Creek Township 
the father resided until his death in the year 
1H()9, his wife having passed from life the year be- 



fore. They became the parents of a good, old- 
fashioned family of thirteen children, twelve of 
whom lived to be grown, and seven arc still liv- 
ing. Joseph Frease was the eighth In order of 
birth, and his boyhood was passed on a farm and in 
attending the winter terms of school, which were 
conducted near his home, and until he attained 
his majority he resided under the parental roof. 
He then began the study of law in the office of 
Judge Belden, of Canton, and in 1851 was admit- 
ted to the Bar, .after which he began practicing in 
that town, in 1853. In 1855, he was elected to the 
position of Prosecuting Attorney for two years, 
after which he continued his practice until 1866, 
when he was elected .Judge of tlie Common Pleas 
and District .Judge of the Ninth Judicial District 
of Ohio, which is comi)osed of nine counties in the 
northeastern part of the State. After a term of live 
years, he was re-elected to the position in 1871 for 
five years longer, retiring from the l)ench in 1877. 
His legal training and his self-discipline combined 
to fit him most admirably for the position he was 
called upon to fill. His knowledge of the law was 
broad and comprehensive, and lie applied the prin- 
ciples of common and statute law to cases at the 
Bar with great facility and readiness. Careful in 
his investigations of facts, painstaking in his ex- 
amination of precedents, possessed of a sound 
judgment, courteous and dignified in his demeanor, 
he held the scales of justice be3'ond the reach of 
contaminating influences, and retired from the 
beiicli, at the end of his long term of service, dis- 
tinguished alike for his splendid ability, his 
eminent fairness and sterling integiity. He has 
since devoted himself assiduously to the practice of 
his profession, and it can but be acknowledged 
that he possesses ability of no common order. No 
important points of law are ever overlooked in 
the preparation of his cases, and they are ably and 
skillfully handled tliroughont tlu' whole process of 
litigation. 

In 1857, Judge Frease married Miss Sarah II. 
Belden, of Canton, the eldest daughter of Hon. 
George \V. Belden, ex-United States District Attor- 
ney for the Northern District of Ohio, and liy her 
he became the father of six children: George B.. 
Secretary and Treasurer of the Repository Printing 



rORTRAlT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 



213 



Company; Edwin F., a missionary to India; Harry 
W., Secretary and Treasurer of the Canton Stone- 
ware Company-; Elizabeth S., Edith M., and Ra- 
clicl B. Upon entering the legal profession, Judge 
P'rease had to measure swords with men of recog- 
nized ability, who had the advantage of many 
years' experience, but it was not long before he 
succeeded in impressing upon both his professional 
brethren and the general public the fact of his 
ability as a legal light. lie is held in high esteem 
by the citizens of Stark County, and in every re- 
spect deserves their good opinion. His residence 
is at No. 60 South Plum Street. In politics, lie 
has been a Republican since the organization of 
the party, and recognized as an intluential mem- 
ber in its councils in the State. 



JONATHAN rKESCOlT HlHroN, Presi- 
dent and Treasurer of the Hidgeway-Burton 
Company, President of tlie Penn Iron & 
.,^^_^ Coal Company, and President of the Fox 
Lake Coal Company, is one of the most successful 
and prominent citizens of Massillon. The different 
enterprises with which he is connected, aud in the 
development of which he has ever been an integral 
factor, are upon a solid financial basis and have con- 
tributed materially to advance the interests of this 
portion of Ohio. The Ridgeway-Burton Company 
owns eight different mines, from which they ship 
the Miissillon Coal and Black Band Iron Ore. The 
Penn Iron it Coal Compan^y owns iron furnace 
and iron ore mines at Canal Dover, in Tuscarawas 
County, Ohio, while the Fox Lake Coal Coni|)any 
has its headquarters at Cleveland, their coal mines 
being near Massillon. 

At Penn's Manor, near Philadelphia, Pa., our 
subject was born September 30, 1820. The fnmily 
of which he is a member originated in England, 
whence his great-grandfather, .louathan Burton, 
emigrated to America in company with William 
Penn and settled at Penn's Manor, in what is now 
Bucks County, where lie died, Grandfather rlona- 



than Burton was a farmer in his native State, 
Pennsylvania, where he passed his entire life. The 
father of our subject, William Burton by name, 
was born near Philadelphia, and during his early 
life engaged as a civil engineer, but later became 
a contractor and builder. Among the public 
works which he constructed in Pennsylvania was 
a part of the Delaware division of the Pennsyl- 
vania Canal and also the Delaware and Chesapeake, 
in which venture he was unfortunate, losing all he 
invested. He also contructed part of the Phila- 
delphia & Trenton Railroad and one of the first 
recollections of our subject is that of riding with 
his father in the first ears ever run on the road, 
they being drawn by horses. 

The mother of our subject, Rosanna (Calbraith) 
Burton, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, of 
Scotch descent, and died when quite 3'oung. Jona- 
than Prescott was the 3'oungest child in the family 
circle and was reared in his native place, his edu- 
cation being gained at Penn's Manor. When 
seventeen years old, he went to Trenton, N. J., 
where he spent one year, and proceeded thence to 
the city of New York. He entered the employ of 
Lord & Taylor, a prominent firm of that city, which 
is still in existence. When less than twenty, he 
embarked in business for himself as a merchant, the 
firm name being Brown & Burton, and for a short 
time remained in that connection, doing an exten- 
sive business and gaining a practical experience, 
which was of inestimable value to him in the busi- 
ness transactions of later years. 

In 1H42. Mr. Burton removed to Philadelphia, 
where he engaged in the wholesale dry-goods busi- 
ness under the firm name of Burton & CJrels, the 
partnership continuing until 1846. Afterward he 
became a member of the firm of Davis, Burton it 
Co., and for nine years was engaged in the French 
and India importing trade. During that time, he 
was for the most part stationed in Europe, at Lyons 
and Paris, where he had charge of purchasing the 
goods and ship[)ing them to New York and Phila- 
delphia. Jleanwhile, he traveled through the 
continent and visited the principal points of inter- 
est. Fiitil 18.58, when he withdrew from the con- 
nection, tiie firm of Davis, Burton <fe Co. transacted 
the niosl cxtonsivo business in New York and 



214 



POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Philadelphia, which in those days were at the head 
of the importing trade. 

The j-ear 18.59 witnessed the arrival of Mr. Bur- 
ton at M.assillon, where he remained for two years. 
His former partner, Mr. Davis, had become an of- 
ficer on Gen. J. C. Fremont's staff, stationed at St. 
Louis, Mo., and, being ill, sent for our subject. It 
was in the year 1861 when, on account of the war, 
all business was injured, and especially the iron 
trade, in which Mr. Burton was interested at Mas- 
sillon. Accordingly, he went to St. Louis and be- 
came Deput\' Military Quartermaster of the West- 
ern army, a position which he occupied for more 
than six months with notable ability. 

AVhen the depression in business circles ce.ised, 
Mr. Burton returned to IMassillon, where he pur- 
chased tlie stock in the furnace and established the 
business, continuing alone until 1876. He then 
founded the corporation known as the Burton 
Furnace Company, of which he has since been 
President. The Massillon Coal has the reputation 
of being the finest soft coal in the world for fuel, 
and at that time it was the only coal that could be 
used raw without coking in the manufacture of 
iron from ore. He laid the plans to rebuild the 
furnaces with a capital stock of 1200,000, but find- 
ing that coke was far superior for the purpose 
intended, changed his plans and bought the furnace 
at Canal Dover, which had been on a large scale 
and now has all the modern improvements for the 
manufacture of pig iron. 

In July, 1879, the Ridgewa}- -Burton Company 
was organized with Mr. Burton as President, and 
they engage as dealers in coal and iron ore, their 
office being located at No. 39 South Erie Street, 
Massillon, and No. 204 Superior Street, Cleveland, 
Ohio. In 1880, Mr. Burton organized the Fox 
Lake Coal Company with a view to consolidate 
and define his interest with the Ohio and Pennsyl- 
vania Coal Company, and opened mines conveni- 
ent for market at Cleveland, his object being to 
reach different markets without a transfer on rail- 
roads. He is by far the most extensive operator 
of coal and iron here and is an acknowledged 
authority on all matters pertaining to the business. 

On the corner of Prospect and Main Streets, Mr. 
P.urton lias a beautiful residence and there, sur- 



rounded by his family, he finds relaxation from 
the business cares that crowd upon him. He was 
first married in Philadelphia, in 1845, Jiis wife be- 
ing Elizalietli .lenkinson, who was born in Mary- 
land and died at Massillon in 1867. In February, 
1871, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. 
Zerbe, a native of Stark County, Ohio, her father, 
Jonathan Zerbe, having been at one time a promi- 
nent business man of Massillon. Mr. and Mrs. 
Burton are the parents of four children: Alice C, 
Clara, Jonathan Prescott, Jr., and Courtney, all of 
whom have received splendid educational advan- 
tages and are intelligent as well as highly popular 
in social circles. 

In his political connection, Mr. Burton is firm in 
his support of the principles of the Republican 
part3'. He served as a member of the City Council 
for two terms, during which time he was Chairman 
of the Finance Committee. He was reared in the 
Society of Friends. As a Master and Royal Arch 
Mason, a business man of sujierior attainments, 
and a man of honor, his position is among the 
foremost residents of Massillon, where he has so 
long made his home. 



JOHN TINGLING. Favorably located in 
Perry Township, Stark Country, is a tract of 
one hundred and nineteen acres, which is 
owned and operated b\- tiie gentleman above 
named. It is supplied with sucli barns, granaries,etc., 
as are needed, and the trees and vines that supply 
the family with various fruits in their season. Mr. 
Yingling has been engaged in farming during the 
greater part of his life since arriving at j-ears of 
discretion, and makes of his vocation both an art 
and a science. He was born in Massillon, Septem- 
13, 1840, and is the son of John and Helena 
(Gugor) Yingling, natives of Prussia. 

Bidding adieu to their old home in (Germany, 
the parents of our subject in 1840 set sail for 
America and twenty-one days later landed in the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



215 



city of New York. Thence they came via the 
Hudson River and Erie Canal to Buffalo, where 
they boarded a lake steamer, wliich conveyed them 
to Cleveland, from which city they canio to Mas- 
sillon by the canal. After a residence in that 
place for a number of years, Mr. and Mrs. Ting- 
ling finally located on the farm where our subject 
is residing at the present time. Their first home 
in the new country was a log cabin, where thej' 
resided until the land was placed under cultiva- 
tion and they had the means and time to replace 
the rude structure with a more comfortable dwell- 
ing. Here the father died in 1871, being fol- 
lowed to the better land the succeeding year by 
his good wife. The family of three children bore 
the respective names of John, Frank and Helena, 
the latter being the widow of George Huffman. 
The father was one of the prominent German 
pioneers of Perry Township, and religiously, was 
a member of the Clatholic Church. 

He whose name heads this sketch has always 
made his liome in this county, where he received 
a good education both fn the German and Eng- 
lish languages. When ready to establish a home 
of his own, he was married to Miss Regina Sib- 
ilo, who was also a native of Massillon, having 
been born December 25, 1842, to Nicholas and 
Regina Sibilo, natives of the Fatherland. The 
father of Mrs. Yingling emigrated to America in 
1841, and on taking up his al)ode in M.assillon, 
engaged in the grocery business, in which line of 
trade he was more than ordinarily successful. The 
mother of Mrs. Yingling accompanied her par- 
ents to the United Slates when eleven years of 
age, and they also located in Perry Townshi}). 

Of the large family of children born to our 
subject and his wife, twelve are living, namely: 
Flora, Mrs. John FYantz; Theresa, Mrs. Theodore 
Cramer; F'rederick, Louis, Anthony; Ida, Mrs. 
Otto Kohn; Clara, Amelia, Charles, George, Will- 
iam and Catherine. Mr. Yingling, as before stated, 
owns a valuable farm containing one hundred 
and nineteen acres, which he has placed under 
the best cultivation. In the prosecution of the 
work to wliich he has devoted himself, he is ener- 
getic, prudent and efficient, winning thereby a 
fair share of the substantial benefits that accrue 



from such labors. His political sentiments have 
led him to identify himself with the Democratic 
party, and his reputation among his fellow-citi- 
zens as a man of exemplary habits and unimpeach- 
able integrity is of the best. He is now serving 
as a Democratic committeeman of Perry Town- 
ship, and religiously, is associated with the work 
of the Catholic Church as one of its most valued 
members. 






^^ APT. JOHN JACOBS, an old and prominent 
((( n ^^*'*''^'' *^f Stark County, Ohio, and an cx- 
^^^J canal-boat man, has for some time been suc- 
cessfully operating a coal mine on his farm, and is 
also engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was 
born in Franklin County, Pa., April 15, 1812, and 
owing to the fact that he was left an orphan at an 
early day, and was reared bj' strangers, he was 
never an attendant at school. After remaining 
with those who gave him a shelter, and assisting 
them with the laborious duties of the farm, he 
started out to make his own waj' in the world 
without a cent, and so anxious was he to become 
independent and to secure employment, that he at 
first labored for ^3 per month and afterward 
$4.50. 

In the spring of 1837, he came all the way to 
Ohio on foot, over the mountains via Pittsburgh, 
from which place he took a boat to Wellsville, 
Ohio, after wliich he came to Stark County, finall)' 
reacliing Massillon, where he found that his capital 
consisted of just 19. He soon secured employment 
at clearing land and building barns, after which he 
worked in the warehouse of Mr. Rawson, and still 
later purchased a one-half interest in the "Halcyon" 
in partnership with a Mr. JNIcCully, but at the end of 
two years sold his interest, and in partnership with 
the Rawsons, purchased the "Acadia," of which he 
became Captain, and which he ran between Mas- 
sillon and Cleveland, the journey occupying four 
days, and sixty-five miles of it being made by 
canal. Some years later, he sold his share in 



216 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



this boat and bought a one-half interest in two 
boats, but later disposed of his interest in these 
also. During: this time, he purchased one hundred 
acres of land two and a half miles from Massillon, 
and while absent looking after his boats, the 
farm was ably managed by his wife. He became 
the owner of the boat "Eldridge," and foreighteen 
years of his career, he held the title of Captain. 

Later Capt. Jacobs and a Mr. Bowman purchased 
a mercantile establishment, but at the end of one 
j'ear closed out their stock and our subject turned 
his attention to farming and the coal business, leas- 
ing the coal on his farm. Some years later, he opened 
a coal mine at Canal Fulton for Cleveland parties, 
and later opened a mine on land belonging to Mr. 
Harsh, and (me on his own land, and has since 
been one of the most extensive coal miners and 
dealers of the county. He is the owner of four 
farms: an improved farm of one hundred and sev- 
ent3' acres in Tuscarawas Township; two in Law- 
rence Township — one comprising one hundred and 
fifty-six acres, and the other one hundred and fif- 
teen acres — and one containing one hundred and 
seventy acres in Jackson Township. He operates 
the last in partnership with J. G. Warwick, with 
whom he has been associated for the past twenty- 
five years. Besides this valuable property, he owns 
about four hundred and eighty acres of improved 
land in Adair County, Iowa, and one hundred and 
sixty acres in McLean County, 111. AVhile on the 
canal, he operated both freiglit and packet boats, 
and at one time made the run from this point to 
Cleveland and back again in four days, never tak- 
ing any rest except while eating. 

Our subject is a Director and one of the organ- 
izers of the First National Bank of INIassillon, and 
owns stock in the Hicks Brown Flouring Mill of 
Mansfield, in which his daughter and sons are part- 
ners. This mill has a five liundred barrel capac- 
ity. He is interested in the Western Straw Board 
Company at St. Mary's, and is also one of its Di- 
rectors and stockholders. He has been a resident 
of Massillon since 1869, but still looks after his 
farms and his coal interests. He is a partner in 
the Millport Coal Company, and also owns some 
business blocks in Massillon. He is a wide-awake 
and enterprising man of business, and is essentiallj' 



self-educated and self-made. He was married in 
Massillon in 1841, to Miss Caroline Cannon, a na- 
tive of Pennsylvania, who came with her parents 
to Ohio when a child. She died March 6, 1886, 
having become the mother of the following chil- 
dren : Warren, .Secretary and Treasurer of the Mas- 
sillon Bridge Works; Oliver S., .Secretary, Treas- 
urer and Superintendent of the Western Straw 
Board Company; Carrie, Mrs. Hicks Brown, and 
three children that died in childhood. Mr. Jacobs 
supports the measures of Democracy, and in every 
respect has been one of the enterprising and push- 
ing citizens of the county, and has done much to 
make it the tlourishing agricultural and commer- 
cial region that it now is. He deserves great credit 
for his success in life, and points an excellent les- 
son to tlie youth of to-day, wliose advantages for 
advancement are so much greater than his were. 



=^|<^^^ 



JOHN UHSCHEL. The world is crowded 
with men and women each trying to gain 
success through the different avenues of 
,^;^_,^ money-making, and day after day the cease- 
less round of duty goes on; some giving attention 
to professional callings, some buying and selling 
in commercial headquarters, and still others culti- 
vating the soil. It is a pretty generally conceded 
fact that the agriculturist leads the freest and 
easiest life, since his time is his own through much 
of the year. And certainly to no class of bread- 
winners are we indebted for more beneficial re- 
sults than to the farmer. 

Our subject is at the present time ideii titled with 
the latter-named class, and it would be hard to 
find a more genial, courteous or intellectual gen- 
tleman than Mr. Urscliel, who is at the present 
time cultivating the soil on section 12, Bethlehem 
Township, Stark County, Ohio, where he has a 
good estate. He is a native of this county, having 
been born September 16, 1837, and is thus more 
interested in its welfare than he would be were it 
otherwise. He is the son of Daniel and Barbara 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



217 



Ui-scliel, natives of Germany, who determined 

to emigrate to the New World in 1835. They set 
sail from Bremen in a sailing-vessel, and, after a 
tedious voyage, laniled on American shores, thence 
coming directly to this county and taking up their 
abode in Bethlehem Township, where they were 
identified with the early settlers and well-to-do 
citizens. They resided for some time in a log 
house on an uncultivated tract of land, which the 
father by much hard labor placed under good im- 
provement. The mother departed this life March 
29, 188.5, and the father died December 25, 1887. 
Mr. Urschel of this sketch was the fourth in 
order of birth of the parental family, of whom we 
mention those surviving: Catherine, Mrs. Peter 
Roche; Barbara, wife of Peter Strauss; Daniel; our 
subject; Andrew; I'hrebe, the wife of Frederick 
Leifer; and .Jacob. Our subject has always lived 
in liis native county, where he was reared on a 
farm and gained a sound, practical knowledge of 
agricultural pursuits, which has been his life call- 
ing, with the exception of eight years spent in the 
tanning business in Lucas County, this State. His 
educational advantages were limited, but he lost 
no opportunity to improve his mind, and to-daj' 
keeps himself thoroughly posted on what is going 
on about him in the world. 

When ready to establish a home of his own, Mr. 
Urschel was united in marriage with Miss Mary 
Schenkel, the ceremony which made them one 
being performed May 27, 1869. Mrs. Uiscliel was 
born in this township to .Jacob and Elizabeth 
Schenkel, the former of whom is deceased. To 
them has lieen granted a family of three chil- 
dren, viz.: Daniel K., Jacob .1. and William L. 

Our subject is the owner of one hundred and 
flfty-three acres of land, which he has improved, has 
under a fine state of tillage and has erected there- 
on neat frame buildings. He now stands among 
the foremost agriculturists of this township, who 
have contributed so largely to the prospeiit3- of this 
part of the State. With true public spirit and char- 
acteristic liberality, he has aided every enterprise 
that would in any way advance the welfare of the 
community. He is a Democrat in politics, and 
although frequently solicited to hold public office, 
has always refused to do so, preferring the quiet of 



home life to the worry and turmoil of official po- 
sitions. He is greatly interested in church affairs 
and is a prominent and devoted member of the 
English Reformed Church, which body he serves 
as Deacon. His wife is also a member of that de- 
nomination and they both occui)y a high place in 
the esteem of all acquaintances. 



-^^ 



EDWARD L. HERING, grocery and produce 
merchant, located at the corner of Tremont 
' and Duncan Streets, also a prominent liv- 
ery-man and President of the City Council of 
Massillon, was born near that cit}^ on the 3d of 
April, 1863, and is a son of Peter Hering, who was 
born in New York City. The grandfather, Philip 
Hering, was born in Germany and was a laborer. 
Thinking to better his condition, the latter came 
to America at an early date, and first settled in New 
York City, but later came to Massillon and was 
one of the prominent men of this locality. 

Peter Hering 's early life was passed in Massil- 
lon, Ohio, and he learned the trade of machinist, 
which he followed the principal part of his life. 
He was a very skilled workman and was engaged 
with Russell & Co. for some time. His death oc- 
curred in 1878. He married Miss Elizabeth Wal- 
ters, a native of Germany, who came with her 
parents to this country when but a little girl. Her 
father died here two years later. He was a mem- 
ber of the St. .John's Evangelical Church. The 
mother is still living, and now makes lier home 
with our suijject. 

Edward L. Hering, the second in order of birth 
of five children, attended .the Second Ward School 
in Massillon until thirteen years of age, after which 
he was employed in the livery barn of D. C. Bun- 
nell, where he remained two years. After this, he 
was with Russeli ife Co. for some time, and later 
ran a drill press for a year. Still later, he wjisem- 
l)loyed as clerk by his mother, who had started the 
grocery and produce business in 1878 in one 
room, and this he continued until twenty years of 



218 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



age. In 1883, he bought the stock and has con- 
tinued business alone since that time. lie is a 
voiing man of good I)usiness acumen, progressive 
in his ideas, and well understands everything con- 
nected witii his business. Knergetic, reliable and 
trustworthy, his business is conducted on the most 
elevated plane of mercantile lionor, and is one of 
the representative enterprises in its line in this 
section. lie has enlarged his store, added to it in 
every way, and his stock is always fresli and new. 
He keeps two wagons on the road all the time. 

In connection with this, Mr. Ilering is also en- 
gaged in the livery- business, and in 18!I2 he erected 
a good barn, 150x64 feet, on tlie corner opposite his 
store, and has been successfully engaged in this 
since. He is also the owner of considerable other 
real estate in Mnssillon, and is one of the most 
successful and popular young business men of the 
place. In 1888, he was elected to tlie City Coun- 
cil from the Second Ward and was on a number 
of committees. In 1891, he was elected President 
of the Hoard. He is a member of the Knights of 
Pythias and a member of the Kvangelical Cliurch. 
In politics, he adheres strongly to the Republican 
party, has been a delegate to county conventions 
and has been in city and county Uepiihlican con- 
ventions. 



ellARLES A. KRIDKR, Siieriff of Stark 
Countv, and a resident of Canton, was 
born in Tuscarawas Townsiiip, this countv, 
on the 2d of August. 1847, and is a son of Samuel 
and Anna Augustine Krider. 11 is fatlier was born 
on the 2;3d of .Ianuary,,1811. in Franklin County, 
Pa., and the grandfather of our subject, George 
Krider, was born March 24, 1789. The latter married 
Fannie Hoover, who was born December 25, 1788, 
and unto them were born seven sons and two 
daughters. The Krider family is of Swiss origin, 
and the Hoover family of German descent. In 
1819, George Krider came with his family to Stark 
County, Ohio, where lie spent tlie remainder of 



his life, his death occurring in 1873. The children 
of his family were: Samuel, .Jeremiah, Benjamin, 
John, George. Abraiiam, Solomon, Sarah, and Kliza, 
wife of A. .1. Stahl. Sarah died in Pcnnsyivniiia 
before the family came to the AVesl. 

Samuel Krider was reared upon a farm until the 
age of nineteen years, when he went to Pennsyl- 
vania and learned tlie tailor's tr.ade. Me then re- 
turned to his home, in 1832, and on the 26th 
of November voted for Gen. .Tackson. He was 
married .lanuaiy 9, 183;"), in Perry Township, to 
Ann Augustine, daughter of Andrew and F^liza- 
beth (Slusser) .\ugustine. Three children were 
born of their union and two sons are yet living: 
Benjamin, who resides in Noble County, Ind.; and 
Charles, the ellieient Sheriff of Stark County. Mr. 
Krider was a well-known citizen and prominent in 
the community where he made his home. In 
1864, he was elected .lustice of the Peace, and 
filled that ofHce for twenty-eight years. He was 
School Director for the long jwriod of thirty 
years, and the cause of education found in him a 
warm friend. He also repiesente.l liis rounty in 
the State Legislature for three years, and w.as a 
stalwart Democrat, lie held membership in the 
Reformed Church, and served as one of its Deacons. 
He was a leading and influential citizen of the 
community, .and jwssed away June 6. 1892. His 
wife resides at the old liomestead in Tuscarawas. 

Charles A. Krider, whose name heads this record, 
spent the dfiys of his boyhood and youth upon bis 
father's farm, where he was reared to habits of in- 
dustry. In the common schools he acquired his 
education, and under the parental roof he remained 
until 1889, when he was elected to his present 
office. By close attention to all the details of his 
office and by industrious and persevering cft'ort, he 
met with good success along that line. He was 
Dei)uty Sheriff from December, 1883, to June, 
1886. Air. Krider on the 24th of December, 
1889, was married to Mrs. Sarah .1. Mobley, of 
Canal Fulton, daughter of Samuel Miller. Since 
January, 1890, our subject has made his home in 
Canton, having been elected to the position of Sher- 
iff of Stark County in the month of November, for a 
term of two years. The faithful and prompt man- 
ner in which he discharges his duties proves that 



jyi^^^j^vsWi^^Ss^^^ij. 





PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



221 



the people's confidence in him as a capable man 
for the office was not misplaced, as he was re-elected 
by a largely increased majority in 1891. Mr. 
Krider is widely and favorably known through- 
out Stark County, where he has spent liis entire 
life, and has many friends among its best citizens. 



-^1= 



^^ OL. THOMAS S. AVEBH. The older mem- 
[|(^^ bers of a communitj' are doubly entitled to 
^^^ tlie respect and esteem of their neighbors 
when their long lives have been replete with acts 
of kindness, and tiieir whole career marked by in- 
tegrity and uprightness. The time-lionored and 
respected gentleman whose name appears at the head 
of this sketch, was formerly' a Colonel of tiie State 
militia under (lov. Lucis, and later under Secre- 
tary Stanton. He has been a resident of Massillon 
since 182i), and a brief notice of his early career 
will be of interest to tlie people of this section. 
He was born at Salem, Columbiana County, Ohio, 
May 6, 1807; his father, .iohn Webb, having been 
born in Harford County, Md., and the grandfather, 
also John Webb, in Chester County, Pa. Tlic lat- 
ter, upon leaving his native State, first removed to 
Harford County, Md., but in 1804 settled near 
Salem, Ohio, where he entered six hundred and 
forty acres of land, whicli at that time was in a 
very primitive condition. By hard work he greatly 
enhanced its value, and at his death it was divided 
among his seven sons and three daugliters. The 
paternal great-grandfather w.as a (Quaker, and upon 
leaving his native land, England, settled in Chester 
Countjs Pa. 

John Webb, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was apprenticed to learn the hatter's trade at 
Baltimore, Md., and before coming to Ohio entered 
the emjjloy of a Mr. Jordan, a iiatter, with whom 
he remained until liis patents were settled at Salem 
and sent for him. He established himself in busi- 
ness, and for many years thereafter kept a public 
hotel. He died in 1827. His wife, Phebe Smith, 
was born in I^oudouu County, Va., a daughter of 



Thomas Smith, a native of Bucks County, Pa., but 
who afterward became a farmer of Loudoun 
County, Va. In 1792, he settled on the Ohio 
River, at Georgetown, Pa., and assisted in laying 
out the town, and there reared a large family. He 
was a (.Quaker, and was active in abolishing slav- 
ery in Pennsylvania. Mrs. Phebe (Smith) Webb 
died at Salem in June, 1822, having become the 
mother of three sons and three daughters, four of 
wliom grew to maturity'. x\t fourteen years of age, 
tlie subject of this sketch was apprenticed to learn 
the saddler's trade in New Lisbon, and after com- 
pleting his apprenticeship, at the end of four }'ears 
he worked at his trade in Youngstown, after which 
he peddled for eight months. He then came to 
Massillon at the solicitation of Dr. Townsend, a 
friend of his father, and in the fall of 1829, 
opened a shop here, which he conducted with suc- 
cess for three years. In 1831, he married Miss 
Margaret Harbaugh, a native of Hagerstown, 
Washington County, Md., a sister-in-law of Judge 
Eberhard. In 1832, he opened a public house, and 
from tiie first this enterprise met with success. In 
1846, a INIr. Spangler, a traveling man from Phila- 
delphia, stopped at his house and was so pleased 
with tiie way it was conducted that lie wrote Mr. 
Webb to come to Philadelphia and look at a house 
in that city; this he did, and with some assistance 
from Mr. Spangler, he opened the E.agle House, 
which he ably managed for five years. He next 
converted three dwellings in that city into a block 
known as the Union Hotel, and as he conducted 
a model house, he prospered financially, and at the 
end of five years he began conducting the United 
States Hotel at Atlantic City, but at the end of 
two years, or in 1857, returned to Massillon, and 
here purchased property with the intention of 
making this place his home. He also bought one 
thousand acres of land two miles from the town, 
and after conducting it for one year he rented it 
and from time to time sold portions of it. He has 
started his sons in the hotel business in Philadel- 
phia, and, like their father before them, they are 
doing well. About 1859, Mr. Webb built the Gas 
Works of Massillon, but at the end of one year 
sold out to a company from Philadelphia. 

While in the hotel business in this city in earlj' 



222 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



times, he gave considerable attention to horse- 
trading and buj'ing, and made ten trips to Balti- 
more and Washington, U. C, to dispose of his 
animals. He was deeply interested in politics dur- 
ing the campaign of William Henrj' Harrison for 
the Presidency and headed many processions in 
his honor. In 1836, he made the race for County 
Sheriff on the Repubhcan ticket, .and although the 
Democratic party usually had a majority of eight 
hundred votes, he came within seventeen votes of 
being elected. He was made Colonel of the State 
militia in 1836, and in 1861 was appointed Post 
Commander of jNIassillon by Secretary of War 
Stanton, and was commissioned Colonel by him 
and placed in command of the One Hundred and 
Fourth and One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Regi- 
ments, but was forbidden by his doctor to take an 
active part in the war. Later, he received a com- 
mission from Stanton to go out as Paymaster, but 
refused for the same reason. He and his wife be- 
came the parents of six children: Alonzo, who died 
at the age of twenty-three years; .Jesse, who resides 
with his father; Frank, who was a wholesale grocer 
and at his death, at the age of fort3--four years, left 
a wifeand twochildren; the three youngest children 
died in childhood. His wife was called from life 
January' 31, 1887, in her seventy-third year. Prior 
to going to Philadelphia, Col. Webb was a Knight 
Timplar in the Masonic fraternity, but is not par- 
ticularly interested in that order at the present 
time. He has been a member of the Episcopal 
Church for tiie past twenty .years, and has always 
supported the principles of Republicanism. 



]f^ AMD HEMPERLY. Stark County sent 
I Jlj many brave, patriotic, self-sacrificing men 
jj^ to the front during the Civil War, in those 
times that tested a man's loyalty and devotion to 
his country. Among them was David Hemperly, 
who won honor as a soldier, having participated 
in man^' of the most important and hard-fought 
battles of that period. He is now quietly- pursuing 



farming in Tuscarawas Township, and has done 
good service here in the aid he has given his fel- 
low-agriculturists in promoting the growth of this 
part of the county. 

Like man J' of the best citizens of this section, our 
subject was born in Pennsylvania, his native place 
being Lebanon County, and the dale of his birth 
November 6, 1845. His parents, who were also na- 
tives of the Keystone State, were David and Mary 
Hemperl3'. The former dying in his native State, 
the mother emigrated to this county with her fam- 
ily, when our subject was a babe of six months, and 
located on a farm in Tuscarawas Township. She 
was the mother of six children, all of whom are liv- 
ing with one exception, and l)ear the respective 
names of Daniel, .lohn, Samuel, Mary, Henry and 
David. Mrs. Hemiierlj^, a most estimable lady, suc- 
ceeded in keeping her family together, and trained 
them in a manner to make of them good and use- 
ful citizens. She survived her worth}' husband 
until December, 1889, when she too passed away. 

David, of this sketch, was given a fair education 
in the primitive schools of that early day, and 
early in life acquired a knowledge of farming, 
which has served him to good .account. At the 
early age of eleven years, he learned the black- 
smith's trade, which occupation he followed with 
fair success for fifteen years. On the outbreak of 
the Civil War, he enlisted, August 2, 1862, as a 
member of Company E, One Hundred and Fourth 
Ohio Inf.antry, being mustered in as a private. 
With his company, he was se'ut to join the Army 
of the Tennessee, and as a member of that body, 
served all through the Atlanta campaign. When 
Sherman marched to the sea, Mr. Hemperly was 
transferred to Schofield's department, under the 
direct command of Gen. Thomas, and took part in 
the battle and siege of Nashville. He later fought 
at Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, Resaca, Pumpkin ^■ine 
Creek, Ch.attahoochee, and many others of minor 
importance. He was captured at Raleigh, N. C, 
but made his escape within twenty-four hours after 
his confinement. 

On receiving his honorable discharge, in Ma.}', 
1865, our subject returned home and resumed the 
calling which he had abandoned when he took up 
arms in defense of his country. November 4, 1869, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



223 



he was married to Miss Sarah A., daughter of Mar- 
tin and Marv Rudy, early settlers of Stark County. 
Mrs. Heniperly was born March 10, 1846, and by 
lier union with our subject has become the mother 
of seven children, one of whom is deceased. Those 
living are: William, Delia, Clarence, Nettie, Wal- 
ter Saddle and Myrtle. 

The landed estate of our subject comprises sev- 
enty-nine acres, whose value he has increased since 
it came into his possession by many substantial 
improvements, including a comfortable residence, 
which is neatly and tastefully furnished, marking 
the presence of an intelligent household. Mr. Heni- 
perly owes his present circumstances solely to his 
own industry, and in his career lie has shown him- 
self to be possessed of those faculties that are requi- 
site to success — .'Sagacity, far-reaching forethought, 
and practical tenacity of purjjose. 



^>-^^<^ 



ICHARI) R. PORTER, wiio is now engaged 
in the practice of veterinary surgery in 
Canal Fulton, is widely known throughout 
^^i this part of Ohio, and is a prominent man. 
He was born in Beaver County, Pa., February 14, 
1819. His father, Richard Porter, was born in 
Ireland, December 15, 1774, and when nineteen 
years of age, crossed the Atlantic with his two 
brothers, Thomas and Patrick. He settled in 
Pennsylvania, and in Washington County married 
Nancy Johnston, a native of Scotland. She was 
reared on the Emerald Isle, however, and in 1795 
came to the I'nited States. The father of our sub- 
ject followed farming in Beaver County until his 
death in 1841. The mother afterward came to 
Ohio, and lived with her son until called to her 
final rest in 1869, at the age of ninety-two years. 
Her family was noted for longevity, and her 
mother, who was a native of Ireland, reached the 
advanced age of one hundred and four years. 

In the Porter family were five sons and four 
daughters, all of whom grew to mature years, were 
married and reared families, but Eleanor, John A., 



James, Thomas, Margaret and Betsy are now de- 
ceased. Alexander also passed away at the age of 
seventy-six years. Ann is the wife of Joseph 
Rhodes, of Darlington, Pa. 

Our subject was the fifth son and eighth child in 
the family. He began his education in the district 
schools and completed it in the Darlington Acad- 
emy, being a schoolmate of Judge F^orward, of 
Pittsburgh, Judge Ague vv,ofBeavertown, and man_v 
other distinguished men. After finishing school, 
Mr. Porter turned his attention to farming and 
surveying, and at the age of twenty-four also be- 
gan auctioneering. He is now the oldest auction- 
eer in tlie State. He also taught a singing-school 
at the same time, and followed the threshing- 
business. In 1853, he came to Stark Count\-, 
and purchased a farm on section 8, Lawrence 
Township, where he engaged in general farming 
and stock-raising until 1875. 

In Beaver, Pa., November 9, 1841, Mr. Porter 
married Keziali Martin, who was his faithful com- 
panion and helpmate for many j'ears. In 1889, 
he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, 
who died in Canal Fulton, on the 27th of March. 
They were the parents of six children: Nancy Jane, 
now the wife of George Kilgore, of Hastings, Neb., 
a railroad employe; Maria, wife of Rev. .1. \. 
Lurch, Chaplain of the Central National Home, of 
Dayton, Ohio; John Newton, who served for four 
years in the late war, returned home in 1865, and 
died in 1878; Thomas J., who for three ^-ears wore 
the blue, is now a druggist of Canal Fulton; Jo- 
seph M. is a practicing physician of New York 
City; and Charles F. is a leading dentist of Mas- 
sillon, Ohio. 

Mr. Porter continued to reside upon his farm 
until 1875, when he sold out and removed to Canal 
Fulton. He then engaged in the grain business, 
and built a warehouse, carrying on operations in 
that line until 1890, when he sold outand began the 
practice of veterinary surgery, having been a stu- 
dent of the profession when a young man. He 
also engaged in buying wool for twenty-six years, 
in connection with his other business interests. His 
possessions have all been acquired through his own 
efforts, and his industry and good management 
have won him a comfortable competence. 



224 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Mr. Porter takes an active interest in political 
affairs, and is a stalwart Republican. He lias held 
all the townshii) ottices, and is now Treasurer, hav- 
ing served as such for eight years. In 1864, he 
was elected County Commissioner, and became in- 
terested in building the first iron bridges of the 
county. He has superintended the work of more 
than sixty iron bridges, and his interest in this im- 
provement has been of incalculable benefit to the 
county'. In 1867, he was again elected Count3' 
Commissioner for a second terra of three years, 
and in 1870 was elected a member of the State 
Board of Public Works, which iiosition he held for 
twelve years, being three times re-elected. The 
promptness and fidelity with which he has always 
discharged his duties have won him the commenda- 
tion of all, and led to his frequent re-election. 

For forty years Mr. Porter has been a member of 
the Odd Fellows' society, and now belongs to 
Lawrence Lodge No. 297, I. O. O. F., of Canal 
Fulton. He has filled all its offices and is now 
Past Grand. The public and private life of Mr. 
Porter are alike above reproach. He has been true 
to every trust reposed in him, his career has been 
upright and honorable, and to the community lie 
has proved a valued citizen. His name is insep- 
arably connected with the history of the county, 
and in its annals ho well deserves representation. 



^fOSEPlI SMITH. All honor is due to the 
noble pioneers of this county who braved 
the liardships of frontier life, endured many 
privations, and sacrificed much in order to 
redeem the land from the wilderness and establish 
homes for themselves and families. It is to their 
patient and persistent labors that the growth and 
prosperity of this section of the country were laid 
on enduring foundations. Some of these men are 
still living and are among our most valued citi- 
zens. One of these, whose name appears at the 
head of this biography, may well lay claim to re- 
spect as one of the old settlers of the county, in 



whose development he has borne a part for so 

many years. 

The original of this sketch, who is at present re- 
siding in Perry Township, is a native of Pennsyl- 
vania, having been born in Cumberland County, 
October 13, 1815. He was an infant of eighteen 
months when he accompanied his parents, J.icoh 
and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Smith, to this county. 
They were also natives of the Keystone State, and 
on coming to this county located on a new farm 
among the early settlers of Canton Township. Of 
their family of ten children, three are now living, 
those beside our subject being John and David. 

Joseph Smith, of this sketch, was reared to man's 
estate amid the pioneer scenes of farm life in this 
county, and in an early day used wooden mold- 
board plows and other primitive implements in 
cultivating his farm. He received his education 
in an academy, and when his school days were over 
he settled down to his chosen calling as a fanner. 

Mr. Smith, on October 12, 1839, was united in 
marriage with Miss Nancy Burger, a native of Co- 
lumbiana County, this State, who was born Janu- 
ary 4, 1817. She is the daughter of Peter and 
Barbai'a (Werts) Burger, who were also natives of 
that State and early settlers in the above-named 
county". When ten years of age, Mrs. Smith ac- 
companied her parents on their removal to this 
county, at which time they located on a])ortion of 
the present site of Massillon. Of the Burger fam- 
ily of nine children, only three survive, namely: 
Mrs. Catherine Lighter, Rebecca, and Mrs. Smith. 

To our subject and his estimable wife have been 
born eight children, of whom the following seven 
are living: Alonzo, Darwin B., Cyrus, Jacob, 
Kmina J. (Mrs. J. H. Sponseller), Senora C. (Mi's. 
John Freeman), and Mary E. Mr. Smith located 
upon his present farm in 1840. It comprises two 
hundred acres, upon which he has placed modern 
improvements, his well-built, commodious build- 
ings being supplied with every convenience, and 
comparing favorably with the best in the neighbor- 
hood. His neatly-fenced fields are under an ad- 
mirable system of tillage, and the rich pastures are 
capable of sustaining a good deal of stock. Mr. 
Smith has been the owner of a large estate which 
he has divided among his children. With his wife, 



PORTRAIT AND HrOGRAPIIICAL RECORD. 



225 



he is a devoted member of the German Reformed 
Church, Mrs. Smith having been a member of that 
body since fifteen 3ears of age. In politics, he 
votes with the Democratic part}', and is one of the 
substantial men in his comm unity. Although lie 
is a quiet, unassuming man, the people among 
whom he has dwelt in peace and amity these many 
years hold him in warm regard, as they have al- 
ways found in him a true friend, ever considerate 
and pleasant in his manner, and they have a high 
opinion of his personal character, knowing him to 
be a man of princii)le and sound integrity. 



\T/_^^ BROSirS, Postmaster at Alliance, was 
ifjl born in Mahoning County, Ohio, Februar}' 
/^^ 27, 1839, and for a quarter of a century 
(^; has been closelj' connected with the prog- 
ress of the city where he now makes his home. An 
enterprising citizen, upright man, and veteran of 
the late war, he is held in high honor by all who 
know him, and the following brief account of his 
life will possess more than ordinary interest for the 
intelligent and patriotic reader. 

The name Brosius is of French origin, but the 
ancestry of the representatives of the family now 
in America is traced to Germany, where the great- 
grandfather of our subject was born. Early in the 
history of the United States, he emigrated hither 
and made settlement in Pennsylvania, where his 
children spent their entire lives. The parents of 
our subject. Harper and Phiebe (Gatchell) Brosius, 
were natives of Chester County, Pa., whence 
they removed to Ohio at an early day and settled 
in a dense wilderness, whose only inliabitants wore 
Indians and wild animals. 

A farmer by occupation. Harper Brosius pur- 
chased a tract of land in Mahoning County, Ohio, 
on which he made the first improvements and 
erected the necessary buildings. He was not ex- 
empt from the privations incident to pioneer life, 
but being a man of undaunted courage and great 



perseverance, he overcarae the obstacles which im- 
peded his progress and attained a competency. 
In 1846, he removed still farther West and pene- 
trated the sparsely settled county of Cedar, Iowa, 
where he and his wife died a few months after 
their arrival. They were the parents Of ten chil- 
dren, six of whom are now living, worthy and re- 
spected citizens of their respective communities. . 

Thus sadly orphaned and bereft of a father's 
and mother's care at a time when it was most 
needed, the little children remained for a short time 
amid the strange surroundings and the unfamiliar 
scenes of Cedar County, where the few settlers, 
although strangers to them, sympathized with them 
in their deep bereavement, and did all they could 
to lighten the cloud of sorrow that had swept over 
their pathway. However, they soon returned to 
their former home in Mahoning County, where 
our subject, then a lad of seven years, was reared on 
a farm and became a member of the family of W. 
Atkinson. During three months of each year, he 
was permitted to attend the schools of the district, 
but, other than that, his time was devoted to farm 
work. 

In 1861, when the call came to all patriotic citi- 
zens to rally to the defense of their country, Mr. 
Brosius enlisted as a member of Company A, 
Thirty-second, Ohio Infantry, and marched with 
his regiment to the front. December 12, 1861, he 
was wounded at the battle of Alleghany, W. ^'a., 
a gun-shot penetrating his right limb just above the 
knee. He was conveyed to the Beverly (W. Ya.) 
Hospital, from which he was honorably discharged 
as soon as he recovered from the effects of the 
wound. He arrived at home February 27, 1862, 
and, feeling the need of a better education, entered 
the Reed Institute, in Pennsylvania, where he was 
a student for two years. He made the best use of 
his opportunities, and the stock of knowledge 
which he there gained has been constantly in- 
creased by a subsecjuent course of systematic read- 
ing. 

After leaving the institute, Jlr. Brosius resumed 
work at his trade of a wagon-maker, which he had 
learned i)rior to entering the army. In 1867, he 
came to Alliance, where he clerked in a store for a 
number of years and also followed his trade with 



226 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



success. March 27, 1889, under the administration 
of President Harrison, Mr. Brosius was appointed 
Postmaster at Alliance, a position which he in now 
filling to the entire satisfaction of the people. It 
is worthy of record that his brother, C. C, also 
served as Postmaster, filling that position for four- 
teen years in a village of Pennsylvania. His fa- 
ther was also Postmaster at Pottersville (now Be- 
loit), Ohio, from 1844 to 1846. 

In his political opinion, Mr. Brosius is a Repub- 
lican of no uncertain tone, and has for years been 
known as a hard worker in the ranks of that party, 
the principles of which he believes best adapted to 
advance the welfare of our Government. He is 
connected with a number of social organizations, j 
among them the Independent Order of Odd Fel- 
lows, the Protected Home Circle, and the Order of 
Adelphia. The Grand Army of the Republic post 
at Alliance regards him as one of its most ener- 
getic members and he is at present serving as its 
Trustee. 

The marriage of Mr. Brosius was solemnized in 
1872, when IMiss Elizabeth .J. Getty, of Clarksburgh, 
Pa., became his wife. They have two children, 
George E. and Harry E., well-informed and ener- 
getic young men, of whose future the parents have 
great hopes. Mr. and Mrs. Brosius and the elder 
son are members of the Presbyterian Church and 
are active in advancing the religious welfare of 
the city. 



■ gQl- • " ■-f#!(^j#-r 



-^ 



^^P:()KGE AV. LEIGHTEH. a simple narra- 
(ll (— - tion of fact regarding the life of an indi- 
^^J! vidual is undoulUedly the best biograph- 
ical history that can be written of him. Therefore 
we shall not endeavor to elaborate upon the inci- 
dents in the career of the gentleman whose name 
heads this sketch. He is at present residing on 
section 22, Bethlehem Townshij), where he gives his 
time and attention to raising good grades of stock 
and to cultivating the soil. He has met with suc- 
cess in his worldly affairs, and that he is highly 



respected, it needs but a mention of his name to 
prove. 

Like many of the best residents of Stark County, 
our subject is a native of Pennsylvania, having 
been born in Franklin Count}', June 5, 182.5. He 
is the son of J.acob and Elizabeth (Hounstine) 
Leighter, who were also natives of Pennsylvania 
and emigrated to this count}- in 1831. The trip 
was made overland, the family bringing with them 
a few household goods, and on arriving here, made 
their home for a short time in Pike Township. 
Thence they removed to Sandy Township, and 
after a residence there of some years, came to 
Prairie Township, where the father became the 
proprietor of a good farm. 

Of the parental family of eight children, only 
two arc living, our subject and his sister Eliza. 
George AV. was reared to man's estate in this 
county and assisted his father in subduing Nature, 
building cabins, clearing land, etc. He received a 
limited education in the district schools, but being 
of a studious habit and a close observer, he obtained 
a practical education that has served him to good 
purpose. 

Mr. Leighter has always followed the occupation 
of an agriculturist, and when fifteen years of age 
began working out by the month on farms, being 
thus employed until reaching his twenty-fourth 
year. Having been economical and industrious, he 
w.as then enabled to purchase property on his own 
.account, and although subjected at the outset to 
many inconveniences, he h.as succeeded in clearing 
up a fine farm, supplied with good buildings and 
equipped with the most practical of modern ma- 
chinery. 

The lady whom Mr. Leighter chose as his wife 
June 24, 1848, was Miss Margaret, daughter of 
George and Mar}' Rosenfeller, early settlers in 
Pike Township. To them has been born a family 
of nine children, of whom we make the following 
mention: Emily, the wife of Isaac Hoff; Clara, 
Mrs. John Graves; EInora, the wife of Samuel 
Whitmer; Elizabeth, Mrs. John VVhitmire; Eliza, 
Mrs. William Beazel; Alice, Mrs. David AVhitmer; 
Jeremiah, IMary and Charles at home. 

Our sul>ject is the proprietor of two hundred 
and twenty-three acres of valuable land, and in 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



227 



point of energy, enterprise and determination, is 
looiied upon as one of the leading men of Betlile- 
liem Township. He is self-made in the broadest 
sense of that term, and his fine farm stands as a 
monument to his industry and good management. 
Mr. Leighter is a stalwart among the Democrats in 
this section, and is a man of good calibre, of ex- 
cellent liabils and possesses a keen intelligent 
mind. With his estimable wife, he is a consistent 
member of the United Brethren Church, and is a 
citizen who is most highly' respected and well liked 
l)V the entire community. 



■^ OSIAII CLUTZ. A plain, untarnished state- 
ment of the facts embraced in the life of 
Mr. C'lutz, the etticient Commissioner of 
Stark County, Ohio, is all that we profess 
to be able to give in this history of the county; 
and yet, upon examination of those facts, there 
will be found the career of one whose entire course 
through the world has been marked by great hon- 
esty and fidelity of purpose. A self-made man in 
every sense of tliat mueh-.abused term, Mr. Clutz 
has made all his property by industry and indom- 
itable perseverance. He was born near Graeffen- 
burgh, Adams Count}', Pa., on the 13th of Febru- 
ar}', 1831, and no doubt inlieritcd all his thrift 
and perseverance from his German ancestors. 

Our subject's father, .Tosepli Clutz, was a native 
of the Keystone State also, and was a tiller of 
the soil in Adams County, that State, until 1843, 
when the fertile soil of Ohio tempted him to settle 
within its Itorders. He located near Mt. Vernon, 
Knox County, Ohio, and continued to cultivate 
the soil until 1852, when he removed to Fulton 
County, 111., and there passed the closing scenes of 
his life. He was a member of the Lutheran 
Church. He married Miss Eva Altland, a native 
of Adams County, Pa., and she died in Illinois 
when eighty-four years of age. Of the nine chil- 
dren born to this worthy coui)le, eight grew to 
mature years and are now living. 



Josiah Clutz, the second eldest of this family, 
came to the Buckeye State when twelve years of 
age, and, witli his parents and other members of 
the family, made tlie trip with horse and wagon. 
He remained under the parental roof and assisted 
his father on the fai'in until 1849, or until he was 
eighteen years of age, securing a limited education 
in the primitive log schoolliouse of pioneer d.ays. 
At the above-mentioned age, he began learning the 
gunsmith trade at Millwood, remaining thus en- 
gaged for three years, and afterward worked as 
journeyman in a small place for the same length 
of time. In the fall of 1855, he went to Iowa and 
was engaged in business in Muscatine until Jan- 
uary of the following year, when he returned to 
Millwood. There he continued to follow his 
trade. He was married there in 1858 to Mrs. 
Eliza Kelley, who was born near Millwood, and 
continued to carry on his business at that i)lace 
until the ist of Jul}', 1861, when he came to Mas- 
sillon, making the journey with team and wagon. 
He located on Main Street and followed liis trade 
here for twenty -one years. In 1882, he purchased 
the property he now owns, built a shop, and is 
one of the first-class workmen of the State. His 
superior workmanship has attracted the attention 
of all, and he has all the trade he can possibly at- 
tend to. He is the oldest and principal gunsmith 
here. 

In the spring of 1887, he was elected a member 
of the Council from the Third Ward, and tilled that 
position in a creditable and satisfactory manner 
for two terms. He was Chairman of the Street 
and Alley Committee and was on numei'ous other 
committees. In 1889, he was Deputy Auditor of 
the City Board of Equalization, and in 1890 he 
was Deputy Auditor of the Board of Real-estate 
Affairs. In 1891, he was re-elected to botii posi- 
tions. In the fall of that year, lie was elected 
Count}' Commissioner on the Democratic ticket, 
and is the present incumbent of that position. He 
devotes all his time to the duties of this ofHce, and 
is a most capable and efHeient oflicial. His mar- 
riage was blessed by the birth of four children, 
but only one reached mature years, Joseph, who 
formerly had charge of the gun shop. He was 
drowned on the 20th of June, 1892, while attempt- 



228 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFX'ORD. 



ing to rescue parties during the floods at that time. 
Mrs. Clutz' maiden name was Wclker, and by her 
marriage to Mr. Kclle^- slie became the mother of 
two daughters and a son, of wliom one, a 
daugliter, reached mature years and is now Mre. 
Mary M. MeHride, of Massillon, Ohio. In poli- 
tics, Mr. Clutz is a Democrat, and has been a dele- 
gate to county conventions. 



W/OIIN B. ZI-;TTLEH. Since coming to Can- 
ton in 1882, ]Mr. Zeltler has become well 
known as the proiirietor of the AVest Lawn 
/ (ireenliousesand Nursery, located one-fonrth 
of a mile north of the hospital, and which are the 
headquarters for plants, trees and shrubs of all 
kinds. His success has been far beyond his ex- 
pectations, although not more than he is fairly en- 
titled to tlirough his indefatigable exertions and 
excellent judgment. 

In Sandusky, Erie C'ounty,()hio. our subject was 
born Februarj' 16, 18r)5, the eldest son in the fam- 
ily, .lohn and Cresenia (Kciffer) Zettler, his par- 
ents, were natives of Gernian_v, who emigrated to 
this country early in life and settled in Erie County, 
where the father followed his occupation of a 
fanner. In 1867, he removed to Canton, where 
for several 3'ears he was an employe of C. Ault- 
man & Co. His death, which occurred in 1886, 
was mourned not alone by his immediate family, 
but by the large circle of warm friends, whom his 
upright life had won. The mother is still living. 

When twelve years old, our subject accompanied 
his parents to Canton, and here he gained his edu- 
cation in tlie common scliools. In his youth he 
learned the trade of a carpenter, which, however, 
he did not follow for a liveliliood, but abandoned 
it to engage in his present business. In his tine 
greenhouses he keeps a full slock of i>lants and 
has large varieties of flowers. As above men- 
tioned, he has been successful and has accumulated 
a competency in the lioiioraltk' discharge of his 
business affairs. 



Mr. Zettler possesses an unusual inventive gen- 
ius, and is widely known as the inventor of the 
sash-lock and sash-lift, on which he received a 
patent September 11, 1888, and which will un- 
doubtedly be in common use at no distant d.ay. 
He is also the inventor of Zettler's Revolving Book 
Case, which can be transformed into a wardrobe 
with the removal of the shelves. In addition to 
these, he invented butted glass sash i)ars, which 
do away with all jiuttying and trouble in replac- 
ing broken glass. 

September 1, 1891, ]\Ir. Zettler met with a very 
serious loss, when his place of business was burned 
to the ground, causing an almost entire loss of 
stock and tools, amounting to $3,000, on which 
was but|!300 insurance. Undaunted by this severe 
misfortune, he robuilt at once, put in a complete 
stock, and is again doing a large business. His 
career is well worthy the emulation of the young, 
for he started in life without moneyed capital, l>ut 
by economy and industry has accumulated a nice 
pioperty, including nine acres in Canton, and a 
corafortalile residence. 

The marriage of Mr. Zettler, January 14, 1879, 
united him with Mi.ss Rosa, daughter of Nicholas 
Deville, by whom he has six children, namely: 
Ferdinand, Lester, 'Willie, Vincent, Eflieand Ralph. 
The religious home of the family is in the Roman 
Catholic Church, and their position in social cir- 
cles is one of prominence. 



=^^^^^'i 



ANIEL rHSCIlEL. Among the natives 
) of Oermany who now rank among the 
(pi^ prominent agriculturists of this county, 
may be classed the subject of this bio- 
graphical review, whose life has been such as to 
reflect credit not only upon himself, but also upon 
the land of his nativity. He was born Ma}- 17, 
1835, and was only three months old when he w.as 
brought l)y his parents, Daniel and Barbara Urschel, 
to this couiitiy. 

The father and mother of our subject, upon 










n^ 







PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



231 



landing upon American shores, made their way 
directly to Stark County, and located in a rude 
log cabin in liethleliem Township, where their de- 
cease occurred. Daniel's education was obtained in 
the district schools and amid tlie usual surroundings 
of rural life, but his deficiencies in book lore were 
more than offset liy a knowledge of the practi- 
cal duties of life. 

'I'lie lady to wlioiii Daniel Irscliel owes the com- 
forts of his home became his wife December 17, 
1861. Sheisa native of Holmes County, this State, 
and bore the maiden name of Caroline Geiger. Mr. 
and Mrs. Urschel are both members of llie Evan- 
gelical Association, and together tiiey are enjoying 
the success which was earned l)y years of toil. 

Our subject is now the owner of ninety acres of 
valuable land, which he has improved with sub- 
stantial l)iiildings and all that makes life pleasant 
and attractive. After studying the political situa- 
tion, he l)ecame a Democrat, and is still connected 
with the party which was his choice in early man- 
hood. He takes an intelligent interest in all the 
affairs of the coinnumity, but docs not seek public 
honor or put himself forward in iiublic matters. 






OHN MICHENER. The iMOgra- 
phy which is given below is that of the 
gentleman who, though pa.ssed to his final 
reward, still lives in the gracious influence 
that emanated from him while on earth. He was 
a native (Jhioaii, born in Lawrence Townshii), 
Stark County-, on the farm where his widow now 
resides, September 10, 1818. His father, Jonathan 
M., a native of J>ancaster (,'ounty, Pa., came to the 
Buckeye State as early as 1816, and look up the 
land now owned by Mrs. Michener. He mmried 
Miss Jane Hobsoii, a native of Jefferson Cininty, 
Ohio. Both were (Quakers in their religious belief. 
The subject of this sketch was the second in 
order of birth of the children born to his p.arents, 
and his early days were passed amid the lude sur- 
roundings of pioneer life. Ohio was in its ynulli- 
11 



ful days; schools and culture had not yet reached 
that point where a finished education was the rule 
and expectation of the mass of the youth as now. 
His first educational training was in the district 
schools of Lawrence Townshii), his father being 
the teacher, but he subsecjuently attended school at 
Canton, where he was well educated for his time 
and day. His father died in 1839, and our subject 
and his elder brother were obliged to support the 
family. After reaching mature years, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Elizabeth Beatty, a native of Jackson 
Townshij), Stark County, Ohio, born July 'J, 1828. 
Mr. Michener was a Democrat in his political views, 
and held township offices for about eighteen years, 
being Assessor, Trustee and School Director. He 
was a Quaker in his religious views, and died in 
that faith on the 6tli of September, 1886. He was 
a man of thorough understanding of public affairs, 
and was interested in every measure for the im- 
proveinent and development of the county. 

The father of Mrs. jMichener, John Beatty, was 
supposed to have been born in Ireland, but was 
reared in Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. His 
wife, Mrs. IMichener's mother, was formerly Miss 
Christiana Powell, also a native of the Keystone 
State, where she was reared. There Mr. Beatty 
and she met and married, and they afterward lo- 
cated in Mifflin County, where they made their 
home until 1824. At that date they came to Ohio, 
and located in Jackson Township, Stark County, 
where the mother now resides, being ninety- 
six years of age. The father, too, lived to an ad- 
vanced age, dying in Jackson Township when in 
his ninety-fifth year. They had a family of eleven 
children, six of whom grew to manhood and 
womanhooil, and four daughters are now living, 
ficii. I'.catty W.MS the only son who grew to man- 
IiikmI. The liviui; daughters are: Rosina, wife of 
.Inliu A. King, of Henry Counl\, Ohio; Elizaf)eth 
widow of our subject: ]\lariali, widow of John 
IJullcr; and Mary, who resides with lier mother 
and has never nianifd. 

Mrs. Michener, the fuurlli in order of birth of 
the above-mentioned children, was fairly educated 
in the district schools of Jackson Township, and 
remained under the piireiital roof until her mar- 
rijige to Mr. Michener, August 1, 18-16. After 



232 



PORTRAIT A>'I) BlOdRAl'IlICAL RECORD^ 



marriage, this young couple located on the farm 
now occupied by Mrs. Miclicner, and there their 
four children, two daughters and two sons, were 
born. These are as follows: Mary, at home; John 
Benton, a lawyer in the city of Canton; Harriet 
C, deceased; and James \V., who married Miss 
litta Whipple, and now resides with his mother on 
the farm. Mrs. ^Micliener owns one hundred and 
sixty acres, the old homestead, and the third gen- 
eration now tills the soil of this old place, Mrs. 
Michener renting the land to her son. 



/ *^*^« 



"^[OSEPH SCHOTT, who resides at No. 17 
Lawrence Avenue, and is a contractor and 
builder of Canton, was born on his father's 
farm in Sandy Township, Stark County, on 
the 1st of March, 1834, and is a son of Anthony and 
Gertrude (Halter) Schott. Tlie parents were born 
near Strasburg, in Alsace, France. Soon after 
their marriage in 1831, they emigrated to America, 
locating in Sj'racuse, N. Y. The father spent the 
first year of his residence in this country in working 
in the salt fields of that region, after which he came 
to Stark County, Ohio, settling in Osnaburg. Subse- 
quently he became a resident of Canton, and for five 
j'ears was employed in the iron works, after which 
he removed to Tuscarawas County, where his death 
occurred in 18.53. His wife long survived him, 
and died in Canton in 1886. 

Joseph Schott of this sketch is the second in 
order of birth in a family of five children. The 
common schools afforded him his educational priv- 
ileges, and in order to earn his own livelihood he 
learned the carpenter's trade. After mastering 
that business, he followed it for many years, and 
at the same time dealt in real estate on his own 
account. He laid out and platted what is known 
as the Keatli h Schott Addition to Canton, and 
by his judicious investments in land has accumu- 
lated considerable property. He also owns a cattle 
ranch in frrayson County, Tex., which is now car- 



ried on by his two sons, and sometimes one or two 
of the daughters stay there. 

Mr. Schott has been three times married. In 
1860, he was wedded to Miss Caroline Brankle, wiio 
died leaving four children; Clara, who was the 
wife of John Voggeisang, died leaving two daugh- 
ters; Sylvanus A. and William, who are now 
on their father's ranch in Texas; and Ella at home. 
For his second wife, Mr. Schott chose RosannaKes- 
ler, and they became the parents of a son and a 
daughter. Albert and Ada. The latter is in Texas 
with her brothers. The lady who is now Mrs. 
Schott was in her maidenhood Miss Magdelene 
Markling, a native of Ohio. They^have two daugh- 
ters, Sadie and Emma, who are 3'et in school. 

In politics, Mr. Schott is a stalwart Democrat, 
and takes quite an active part in promoting the 
interests of his party. He has twice represented 
the Fourth Ward in the City Council, and with 
promptness and fidelity performed his public 
duties. He is a man of strict honor and integrity, 
and the confidence reposed in him is shown by the 
fact that he has several times been appointed ad- 
ministrator of large estates. At this writing he 
has charge of the Adam Lippert estate. Mr. Schott 
and his wife are members of the St. John's Catholic 
Church, and are among its liberal supporters. He 
has succeeded in his business career, for he is a 
first-class contractor and builder and never fails to 
carry out his part in an agreement, thus winning 
universal confidence and esteem. 



0~ RLANDO B. CULLER. Tliis name will 
I be recognized by many of our readers as 
that of a gentleman who has borne all im- 
portant part in the development of the agricul- 
tural resources of the Buckeye State, surrounding 
Tuscarawas Townsliip, and who has also been a 
potent factor in the political and municipal affairs 
of the township mentioned. He is now serving 
as Trustee of that section, and the work which he 
is doing conclusively demonstrates the fact that 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



233 



he is greatly concerned rogaidinsr the inii)rove- 
ment of the township. 

Mr. Culler may well be interested in this people 
and country, as he has in both tiie interest of one 
born here, whose life has almost entirely been 
spent in labor with, and for, the citizens of Stark 
County. His birthplace was in Tuscarawas Town- 
thip and his natal day February 26, 1841. He is 
a son of Samuel and Mary (Bidleman) Culler, 
who were natives of Penus3'lvania. The parents 
emigrated to this county at an early da.v, where 
they acquired a good property liy hard work and 
frugal management. 

Our subject is the younger of the two children 
who survive, his brother being .leremiah Culler. 
Samuel, another son, is deceased. The elder Mr. 
Culler was prominent in local affairs and served 
his township in the capacity of Trustee for some 
years. He stood well among his fellow-citizens, 
and his reputation for honesty and fairness in all 
his dealings was of the best. He died in this 
county in 188,t. a devoted member of tlie Luth- 
eran Church. 

Orlando B. Culler, of this sketch, received a 
careful home training and as good an education 
as the schools of the time afforded opi)Ortunity for, 
and has applied the principles gained therein to 
good advantage in carrying on his work. He de- 
termined to pursue the calling of a farmer and is 
now prosecuting successfully his chosen vocation. 
He is a man of active habits, industrious and not 
afraid of hard work, and thus has found plenty to 
occupy his time and attention, and does not know 
wiiat it is to be idle. In connection with his 
farming interests, Mr. Culler has operated a tliresh- 
ing-macliine for the past twenty years, and reaps 
quite an income from this branch of woik. 

The maii'iage of our subject was solemnized 
June 26, 1861, at which time Miss Mary A., 
daughter of David Levers, became his wife. Their 
family now includes the following-named four 
children: Charles F., Nettie L., Clement A. and 
Cora B. The estate of Mr. Culler includes eighty- 
two acres of excellent land and is amply supplied 
with good Iniildings, is under a high state of cul- 
tivation and universally conceded to be one f)f the 
best farms in the township. 



In his political relations, he of whom we write 
is n stanch Democrat, believing that party to be 
in the right. He is now serving his third terra as 
Township Trustee, and has also been the incum- 
bent of the office of Assessor. He is a good man- 
ager, possesses a good degree of foresight, and 
has his interests under excellent control, and we 
always find him favoring all things tliat will in 
any way benefit township or county. 



i>-^^<i 



ILLIAM I\I. NP:WSTETTER, Editor of 
The. Glmne.r, the State organ for the Farm- 
ers' Alliance, was born in Massillon, Ohio. 
October 11, 1859, and is a descendant of sturdy 
German ancestors. His great-grandfather, Conrad 
Newsletter, was a native of Bremen, Germany, and 
was the first representative of the Newstetter family 
in America. lie settled in Pennsylvania at a period 
antedating the Revolution, but later moved to 
the Old Dominion, and from there to the Buckeye 
State in 1812, entering about one hundred and 
sixty acres in Tuscarnwas Township, where his 
death occurred about 1826. 

His son, and the grandfather (>f our subject, 
Henry Newstetter, was a Virgininn by liirlli. iiavini;- 
been born on the James River about 1792, and 
was a soldier in the War of 1812. After returning 
from the army, he entered land in Ohio and liegan 
in true pioneer style to improve and develop it. 
He married Mi.ss Susannah \'oris, daugiiter of 
Peter Voris, and on the farm which he had spent 
tlic best yeai's of his life in iin|)roving, he passed 
away in 1S7I. The father of our subject, Henry 
Xewsteltei-, .Ir., was born in Tuscarawas Township, 
Knox County, Ohio, and here he passed his boy- 
hood and youth. At an early age, he began elei'k- 
iug in a dry-goods store in Massillon and continued 
there until 188!). when he went to Akion, and is 
now saiesmnn in a dry-goods store llieie. His 
wife, wliose maiden name was Charlotte Iluniher- 
ger, was born near Brooktield. Ohio, and lier par- 
ents, .lacob and Hachcl Hninberger. were natives 



234 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of Westmoreland County, Pa. Her parents came 
to Ohio ill an early date and located near Brook- 
field, where the father lieeame a very prominent 
stockman. Later, he located in Massillon and be- 
came one of the representative citizens, being u 
member of tlie City Council for several terms. 
His death occurred in this town in 1887. His wife 
resides in Massillon and is a wortliy member of 
the Presbyteiian Church. To j\Ir. and Mrs. New- 
stetter were born two children, our subject and 
Bertha M., who is in the dry-good.s store of All- 
man it Putnian. 

The original of this notice was reared in Massil- 
lon and received a good, practical education in the 
city sciiools. At the age of fourteen, lie entered 
the printing office of the old Independent, edited 
by Welker ife Taylor, but later went to Cleveland, 
where he received thorougli instruction for al)out 
six months. After this, lie returned and took charge 
of the Independent, then conducted by Charles E. 
Taylor, and managed that paper until 1886, when 
lie started a job otlice with a half-medium press 
and a small amount of type. In November, 1886, 
he started The Gleaner, then a four-column folio, 
as an advertising sheet, but it grew so in popu- 
larity that it is now a weekly six-column quarto, 
and has a circulation of over three thousand. 
April 1, 1892, it was made the State organ, with a 
circulation of ten thousand, and is devoted to the 
interests of the Farmers' Alliance and AVoman's 
Suffrage. ISIr. Newstetter started as a practical 
job printer, liis only capital being liis trade, but 
by hard work and energy and close application to 
his calling, he has made a complete success. His 
presses are run by electricity, and liis plant con- 
tains the highest grade of cylinder presses, i)atent 
folders, and all the latest-improved machinery. 
He has a complete model of a modern office, in a 
building erected especially for the business. Ten 
men are employed all the time. Mr. Newstetter's 
paper is now thoroughly established, its crisp and 
trenchant editorials command an ever-widening 
area of circulation, while they carry with them 
that weight and authority which a clear, calm and 
intelligent judgment must secure. 

Mr. Newstetter was married in Massillon, in 
1884, to Miss Laura C. ^'ogt, daughter of John 



Vogt, who is a stone contractor and builder, and 
proprietor of the Vogt Stone Company. One child 
has been born to our subject's union, Malcolm A. 
Socially, Mr. Newstetter is a Master Mason, and 
a member of the Knights of Pythias, Uniform 
Rank; the Order of United American Mechan- 
ics, and the Junior Order of United American 
Mechanics. In politics, our subject is an Independ- 
ent, favoring the best men, irrespective of party. 



/^HARLES E. OBERLIN. Massillon ranks 
[if^L deservedly high, IS a commercial centre, and 
^^J jjrominent among its resources is tlie trade 
carried on in hardware. Identified with this trade 
and deserving of notice, is Charles E. Oberlin, who 
is one of the foremost and far-seeing business men 
of the place. He is a representative of one of the 
oldest families in the county, and is the son of 
Samuel Oberlin (see sketch). He was born in Mas- 
sillon on the 24th of February, 1855, was next to 
the youngest child born to his parents, and was 
reared and educated in his native town, being grad- 
uated from the High School when about eighteen 
years of age. 

Our subject subsecpiently entered the hardware 
store of S. A. C'onrad as clerk, and continued as 
such for about ten years, after which he became 
junior partner, about 1883. Even at that age he 
displayed unusual sagacity and shrewdness as a 
business man, and remained a member of this firm 
until 1888, attending strictly to the buying and 
selling. The firm then dissolved partnership, and 
in the spring of that year our subject branched out 
in business for himself. He has a large double 
store at Nos. 12 and 14 North Erie Street, J. F. 
Hess' old stand, and the building is three stories in 
height and is 50x65 feet in dimensions. An ele- 
vator is in this building. Mr. Oberlin put in a 
fine new stock of shelf hardware and miner's sup- 
plies, paints, oils, etc., and has a large and flour- 
ishing trade. lie is an energetic and thorough 
man of business, and is highly esteemed, being- 
honorable in all his dealings. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



235 



Our subject is a Director of the Massillon Build- 
ing and Loan Association, and takes an interest in 
other enterprises of tlie city. lie owns a pleasant 
lionie on Tremont Street, and is tlie owner of other 
residences in tlie city. In the year 1887, he se- 
lected his wife in the peison of Miss Ella Miller, 
wlio was born in Massillon, .-md whose father, 
William T., is a moulder with Russell & Co., 
of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Oberiin are the 
paients of one child, Howard M. Pnhlic-spirited 
and enterprising, Mr. Oberiin has ever taken an 
active interest in all worthy enterprises, and has 
given liberally of his means to furtlier the same. 
He is President of the City Board of Teachers' Ex- 
aminers, and has been a member of the same for 
four years. Socially, he is a Royal Arcli Mason, 
and a member of the Royal Arcanum, also a mem- 
ber of the .liinior Order of American Mechanics. 
He holds membership in tiie .Metliodist Episcopal 
Church, and is a Trustee in the same. In politics, 
he is a Republicdii. 



LEXANDER lirHF<)R|), a retired capital- 
ist of Canton, was born in this city, No- 
vember 2.5, 1817, and is a son of Thomas 
and Mary (Wilcoxen) Hurford. His 
mother was born in Brooke County, \'a.,and was a 
daughter of Greenbury Wilcoxen, who was of 
Dutch descent. The llurfords were of Scotch lin- 
eage. The fatlier of our subject was born in the 
eastern part of Maryland in 1780, and was a 
farmer and miller. He came to Canton in 1H()7, 
and built a gristmill and distilleiy, wliicli were 
known as the Hurford Mills and Still House. Later, 
he engaged in merchandising, which he carried 
on for some time. 

The subject of this sketch was educated in the 
village schools, but his advantages were limited, as 
the session each year lasted for only about three 
months. At the age of twelve, he began working 
on the farm, plowing, seeding, etc., and while yet 



a boy was often required to drive from four to six 
horses to a wagon. He remained at home until 
the death of his father and then entered the em- 
ploy of Hull & Shepherd, commission merchants, 
receiving 12.5 per month. He was required to 
look after the warehouse, and did this work for 
thirty-five months, during which time he gained a 
good knowledge of business methods. He then 
embarked in farming, which he has continued more 
or less all liis life. He ran a mill near Wellsville, 
and engaged in its operation until 1842, when he 
sold out, came back to Canton and bought a jiart 
of his father's farm and the mill, (ioing South 
on business, he stopped at Vicksburg and at Mem- 
phis, Tenn., and from there went by boat up the 
Yazoo River to Williams' Landing, after wliicli he 
returned to Wellsville, Ohio. 

Mr. Hurford married Miss Elizabeth Sweariiigin, 
of Hanover, .Tanuary 28, 18)2, daughter of E. 
Swearingin, and settled with his bride on the farm 
above mentioned, and also carried on the mill 
formerly owned by his father, a portion of the 
old homestead. He then carried on farming and 
milling for a number of years, when, on ac- 
count of failing health, he sold out. Having re- 
covered from his illness, he began dealing in cat- 
tle, sheep and horses which he drove to Pittsburgh, 
and in this line of trade made considerable money. 
His next busine.ss venture w.as in su|)plying ties, 
wood and lumber, and in constructing bridges for 
the Ohio & Pennsylvania Railroad, after which 
he bought wood and ties for the same road, with 
which he was connected for fifteen years. Subse- 
quent to that time, various enterprises engrossed 
his attention. In 1860, in company with Peter P. 
Trump, he built the Hurford House, a four-story 
building, and one of the leading hotels of Canton, 
of which Mr. Hurford is now sole owner. In con- 
nection with this, he owns a good farm of three 
hundred and twenty acres in Lawrence Township, 
highly cultivated and well improved. He also 
owns another valuable tr.act of one hundred and 
thirty acres adjoining the corporation on the south- 
east. Mr. Hurford, Peter P. Trumii and Hiram 
Wise owned and operated the Exch.ange Bank sev- 
eral years. Subsequently, -Mr. HurfuKJ sold his in- 
terest to H. R. Wise. 



236 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Unto Mr. and jMi>. Ilurford were born three sons 
and three daughters: Elizabeth, now the wife of 
Charles Rrackebusli; P>mma, wife of Daniel Spotts; 
Rebecca, wife of Charles E. Dark, eng.aged in the 
insurance business in Indianapolis; Alexander, a 
resident of Canton ; Alvin, President of the Nov- 
elty Cutlery Company' of Canton; and Ebenezer, 
who is shipping clerk for the Diebold Safe and 
Lock Company. The mother of this family was 
called to her final rest February 24, 1»S)0, in her 
sixty-seventh year. .She was a devoted member of 
the Presbyterian Church, with whicli she had 
united in 1841. 

In earlj^ life, Mr. Ilurford was a Whig, but after- 
ward became a Republican. To many business en- 
terprises he has devoted his attention, and by en- 
terprise, good m.anagement and the application of 
correct business principles, he has won a brilliant 
success. His life has been characterized by that 
indomitable spirit which carries forward to suc- 
cessful completion whatever it undertakes. He is 
now one of the wealtliy citizens of Canton, and is 
also one of its valued and representative men. 



^~^= 



(17 EWLS V. BOCKIUS is one of the prominent 
I (j^ business men of Canton, a member of the 
jj L^ fj,.n^ Qf ijockius & Sons, President of the 
Canton Cemetery Association, Vice-president of 
the Diebold Safe and Lock Company, and Vice- 
president of the City National Bank. He was 
born in Canton, April 16, 1826. and is a sou of 
John C. and Rosanna (Keller) Bockius. His father 
was a native of Prussia, but the gi-andfatlier of 
our subject was horn in Fredericktown, Md. He 
went to Europe as a soldier, and while there was 
pressed into the British service, but in Denmark 
he deserted .ind went to Germany. He became a 
sailor on a man-of-war, and was with Napoleon's 
army for a number of j-ears. In 1834, he returned 
to this country, and died in Canton. 

John Bockius remained with his father until 
nineteen years of age. When a lad of twelve years. 



he became attached to the army of Bonaparte as 
drummer, serving as such for five years, and in 
1812 crossed the Alps with the army on foot 
to Ital_v, his division being ordered to Moscow. 
At the age of seventeen, he learned the shoe- 
maker's trade in Prussia, and in the year 1819 
emigrated to America. On his arrival, he had 
only twenty cents, and was in debt for his passage. 
He had expected to be sold on arriving in Phila- 
delphia to pa}- for his passage, but a friend of his 
father made up a purse and gave him the neces- 
sary $60. To this gentleman, Mr. Bockius gave a 
note payable with interest. With a small pack on 
his back, he then started on foot for Canton, 
where his uncle, John Bockius, was living, and be- 
gan earning the money to p.ay off his indebtedness. 
Again making the trip to I'hiladelphia on foot, he 
paid the $60 and added interest, and happy indeed 
was he when he received his not<> in exchange. On 
the olh of Jl.ay, 1820, he returned to Canton, and 
embarked in the manufaidure of boots and shoes. 
Afterward he added a stock of ready-made goods in 
this line, and established a house which is now one 
of the leading boot and shoe stores of Canton, and 
with which he continued his connection up to the 
time of his death in 1878. 

Mr. Bockius married Rosanna Keller, a native 
of Baden, who came with her parents to Canton 
when twelve years of age. She proved a faithful 
helpmate to her husband in all his early struggles. 
She died in 1865. Their marriage was celebrated 
May 25, 1825, and unto them were born seven 
sons and six daughters, of whom six are yet liv- 
ing: Lewis v., of this sketch; Henry J. and 
Charles J., residents of I'ort Huron, Mich., en- 
gaged in the shoe business; Charles J., of Canton; 
Henrietta, wife of R, Rohrer, of Freeport, 111.; and 
Mrs. Amelia D. Huntington, of (ioorgetown, Colo. 

Lewis V. Bockius, our subject, was educated in 
the vill.age schools, and began his business career 
in his father's store, serving as clerk until 1848, 
when he was admitted to partnership under the 
firm name of J. C. Bockius ct Son. In 1850, he 
took a trip to California, but retained his interest 
in the store, and on the Pacific Slope engaged in 
mining and trading, and for a time carried on a 
store. Returning to Canton, he again entered the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



237 



boot aud shce business, and after his father's death 
entered into partnership with his hrotlier, Edward 
A. This connpction continued until tlie death of 
the brotiier in 1881. Tn May of that year, another 
brother, Charles .]., was admitted to partnership, 
but the old firm name of J. C. Bockius & Son was 
retained, and business carried on under that title 
until 1886, when our subject bought out the inter- 
est of his partner and admitted two of his sons to 
the business, each taking a fourth interest. The firm 
name of L. X. Bockius & Sons was then assumed. 
They do business at No. 10 South Market Street, and 
carry a large and fine stock of boots and shoes. In 
1868, they lost heavily through fire, as their store 
and goods were only lightly' insured, but immediate- 
ly afterward the present three-story brick building 
was erected on the same site. It is the oldest and 
one of the most important boot and shoe stores in 
the State of Ohio. 

Mr. Bockius was married in Se|)tember, 1855, to 
Miss Caroline J'., daughter of .Tfilin and Susan 
(Trup) (irahani. Iler parents were among the 
earliest settlers of .Jackson Township, and her fa- 
tiier, a very prominent man, was State Senator for 
seven years, l^nto our subject and his wife have 
been born six children: Charles J., Edward G., 
Harry G.; Catherine A., wife of Atlee Pomerene; 
Mary II. and Frederick G. 

In politics, Mr. Bockius is a Republican, and held 
the office of City Treasurer for one term. He was 
one of the organizers of the Valley Railroad, and 
one of its Directors until 1872. He aided in or- 
ganizing the Citizens' National Bank, of which he 
is Vice-president, and in tlie People's Savings 
Bank, which he helped to organize in 1891, he 
holds the office of Director. He helped to organ- 
ize, and is now President of, the West Lawn Ceme- 
tery Association, and is one of the largest stock- 
holders in the Diebold Safe and Lock Company. 
He owns four good store buildings liesides his ele- 
gant brick residence at No. 133 Market Street. Mr. 
Bockius is a public- spirited citizen who has the 
best interests of the community at heart, and gives 
liberally for the support of all worthy enterprises. 
The brilliant success which has crowned his life is 
not the result of accident, but industrious efforts 
have brought it to liiui. Endowed bv nature with 



good business ability, he has made the most of his 
opportunities, and his enterprise, perseverance and 
good management have gained him a well-de- 
served prosperity. He is one of the leading busi- 
ness men of Canton, and the history of Stark 
County would be incomplete without the sketch 
of this representative citizen. 



^f^f-^-I^ll^^i^^ 



DANIEL COBAUGH, President of the Canton 
) Spring Company, with ottice and works at 
South Cherr}' Street, furnishes a notable ex- 
ample of success achieved by earnest endeavor to 
excel and by perseverance in a special line of in- 
dustry. The revolution which has taken place in 
the manufacture of all kinds of vehicles has given 
rise to numerous factories for the manufacture of 
the various parts, and has given an impetus to those 
which already had an existence. The Canton Spring 
Company was founded in a modest wa^' in 1878 
by Daniel Cobaugh, and in less than ten years, 
such had been the growth of the enterprise, it 
was deemed expedient to merge it into a joint 
stock company, which was done in 1887, with the 
following officers: D. Cobaugh, President; H. Mc 
Daniel, Vice-president; H. D. Myers, Secretary, and 
J. J. Cobaugh, Treasurer. The factor}' is a model 
in its way, as all the newest appliances are found 
here for the manufacture of their specialties, while 
ihe order and system wiiich prevail on every hand 
add much to the efficiency. Employment is given 
to about ninety skilled and practical workmen, and 
the product finds a ready market with the leading 
carriage makers all over the country. 

Daniel Cobaugh was born in Stark County, Ohio, 
to Dietrich and Sarah (Shanafelt) Cobaugh, both 
natives of Mar\'land, in which State they were 
reared and married. They removed to Stark 
Count}' about 1834. By trade he was a miller. The 
father was called from life while just in the zenith 
of his usefulness. Our subject spent his boyhood 
days at (ireentown, and at the age of seventeen 
came to Canton and began serving an apprentice- 



238 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ship at the foundry business with Ball, Aultraan 

it Co., completing his trade at the end of three 
years, lie, however, continued in the employ of 
the firm until ISf)?, then became an emi)loye of the 
Ball Reaper Comjiany, and worked in the foundry 
department \intil 1864. Tiie following fall he 
formed a partnership witli Ballard, Fast & Co., 
and engaged in the manufacture of mowing-raa- 
eiiines, knives and sickles, which Inisiness continued 
until 1878, when it closed. The same year Mr. 
Cobaugh founded his present business, as above 
stated, and the success which he has achieved, and 
the large and steadily increasing volume of his 
trade, are the deserved rewards of industry' and en- 
terprise in maintaining the cpialit>' of iiis products 
at the liighest standard, and conducting all his 
transactions upon fair and honorable methods. 
His establishment is equipped with every conven- 
ience and accessory calculated to aid or expedite 
the operations of his business. 

In 18.')6, our subject's marriage witli Louise Hall, 
daughter of Col. E. Ball, one of Canton's pioneer 
manufacturers, and one to whom tlie citj' of Can- 
ton is greatly indebted, was celebrated. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cobaugh are the parents of the following 
children: John, Mary A., Nellie D. (deceased) 
Anna, Kate, Lulu (deceased) and Dietrich. Mr. 
Cobaugh has served two years as a member of the 
City Council, and for the past three years has been 
a member of the Board of Water Works. In pol- 
itics, he is a stanch Democrat. He has a pleasant 
and comfortable residence on North Market Street, 
where he and his wife dispense a generous and 
true-hearted hospitality. 



J JONATHAN KEEHN, deceased. There is 
always more or less curiosity to know tlie 
1 true and inner history of men who iiave 
' been long and favorably identified with the 

business interests of any community, and undoubt- 
edly the biography of Mr. Keeiin will prove inter- 



esting, alike to both young and old. Brought up 

to a knowledge of farm duties, he naturally chose 
the avocation of a farmer, when it became neces- 
sarj' for liim to select a calling in life. His exper- 
ience was wide and varied, and at his decease he 
left a comfortable property. 

A native of Pennsylvania, the subject of this 
sketch was born in INIercer County, April 3, 1805, 
to George and Susanna (Shalter) Keehn. He was 
a lad of ten years when, with his parents, he emi- 
grated to the new State of Ohio, the family mak- 
ing settlement in Bethlehem Township, on section 
10. They were there ranked among the early set- 
tlers and reliable citizens, and it was there that the 
father departed this life in 1832. 

Jonathan Keehn grew to man's estate in this 
count}-, and has done his full share of pioneer 
work in aiding his father to prepare the ground 
and cultivate the soil of the home farm. He at- 
tended the district school during tiie winter 
months, conning his lessons while sitting on a slab 
bench in a log schoolhouse. Mr. Keehn had al- 
ways followed the occupation of a farmer, and 
was classed among the prominent and progressive 
agriculturists of his neighborhood, being always 
ready to adopt any new mellnid which would 
bring him in the largest returns. 

AVhen ready to establish a home of his own, our 
subject was married in September, 1830, to Miss 
Anna M. Reed, the daughter of Jacob and Eliza- 
beth (Kaufman) Reed. Mrs. Keehn was a native 
of this county, her birth occurring October 11, 
1807. She was reared to mature years by a most 
excellent mother, being trained to perform all 
those duties, which make a model housekeeper. 
She was one in a family of ten children, of whom 
three are deceased. Those surviving are: Susan- 
nah, Elizabeth, Sarah, (ieorge; Mary, the wife of 
B. Strauli; Melinda, Mrs. Jackson Drummond; and 
Caroline. 

Mr. Keehn was classed among the best citizens 
of his township, both as regarded his public life, 
which was irrei)roacliable, and his civic capacity, 
in which he acted without a stain. His fellow-cit- 
izens, appreciating his worth, his sound business 
talent and genuine integrity, called upon him at 
different times to take part in municipal affairs. 




Jonathan Holben. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



241 



and for a number of terms he served as Trustee of 
Bctlilehem Townsliip. lie used his political influ- 
ence in favor of tlic Democratic part}', and was 
mucii esteemed for liis many excellent traits of 
character. He departed tiiis life July 14, 1868, 
firm in the f?,ith of the Reformed Churcli. 
His good wife, who survived iiim a number 
of years, died December 28, 1890, at an ad- 
vanced age, and during her last days suffered the 
loss of her eyesight. Slie was also a devoted mem- 
ber of tiie Reformed Church, in whicli body she 
was an active worker. 

The old homestead of our subject is occupied 
by several daughters, who arc managing it in a 
most profitable manner. One son, George W., was 
a soldier in the late war, and saw much hard 
fighting, licing present at the battle of Vicks- 
burg. He is a most estimable man, and destined to 
make his mark in the world. He of whom we 
write was a strong advocate of free schools, and 
se.rved many terms acceptably in the position of 
Director of his district. His worthy character and 
useful life secured for him the lespect of man}- 
acquaintances throughout the county, and the 
deeper regard of tliose who knew him best. 



l^+^i 



^1/ ONATHAN HOLIiEN, formerly one of the 
progressive and well-to-do agriculturists of 
this county, displayed much enterprise and 
ability in carrying on Ins farming opera- 
tions and won for himself a high place among the 
men of his class in Tuscarawas Township, where he 
resided. He was born in Lehigh County. Pa., and 
after coming to Ohio followed his trade of a tailor 
in Canton for a time, and subsequently located 
upon the beautiful estate which his widow is occu- 
pying at the present time. 

The school advantages of our subject were far 
inferior to those offered lads at this tune. He, 
however, acquired a good foundation on which to 
build his after knowledge, both of branches studied 



from books and from the practical affairs of life. 
When ready to establish a home of his own, he was 
married in January, 1832, to Miss Annie Rnff- 
ner, who was born in this county October 2.5, IHUI, 
and is therefore one of the oldest living residents. 
She is the daughter of Conrad and Annie E. 
(Myers) Ruffner, who came from Pennsylvania, 
their native State, in an early day, and located on 
an uncultivated tract of land in the woods of 
Plain Township. The family was obliged to 
camp out in the wagons until a rude structure was 
ct)mpleted, and in that humble home Mrs. Holben 
was reared to mature years, and experienced man}- 
of the hardships and inconveniences incidental to 
the first settlement of a country. She laid the 
foundation of her education in the district .school, 
and was trained to perform all the home duties by 
her excellent mother. 

After their marriage, they lived for a short time 
in Canton, and later took up their abode on the 
farm in this township. They became the parents 
of six children, the three youngest of whom are 
living, namely: .lonathan F., Isaac C. and Mary. 
The great grief of Mrs. Holben 's life was occasioned 
b}- the death of her husband, December 6, 187:5, 
but she was not alone in her sorrow, as his depart- 
ure from the scenes of this life was regretted by a 
large circle of friends, who sincerely syni|)athized 
with the family. 

Mr. Holben began life without means, and it was 
only by the force of indomitable will and the ex- 
ercise of untiring industry, seconded by clear judg- 
ment and sagacious foresight, that he placed him- 
self among the prominent agriculturists of his 
township. At his death he left a valuable estate, 
comprising a quarter-section of land in this town- 
shij), besides one hundred and fourteen acres of 
land in Plain Township and property in the city 
of Canton. The home farm is snpi)lied with every 
comfort, and during his life our subject and his ex- 
cellent wife drew around them a fine circle of 
friends, winning the regard of all who knew them. 

The parents of our subject bore the names of 
Frederick and Margaret Holben, and were re- 
spected residents of Pennsylvania. Jonathan F., 
the son of him of whom we write, makes his home 
with his mother and is superintending the opera- 



242 



PORTRAIT A^'D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



tions of the farm. He is a young man of excep- 
tional energy and industry, and lias won for him- 
self an assured position among his fellow-farmers. 
Like[_his worthy father, he is a stanch Democrat in 
politics. 



-^^^41 



JILLIAJI BECHER. Stark County has no 
more highly respected resident within its 
^ ^ limits than the gentleman above named, 
who is extensively' engaged in agricultural pursuits 
in Pike Township. He comes of good old pioneer 
stock, and was born on section 4 of the above 
township, March 11, 1838. It being generally be- 
lieved that heredity and environment have much 
to do with the formation of character, aud that our 
lives are stimulated by the immediate or direct in- 
fluence of our ancestors, a short resume of the lives 
of Mr. Becher's parents may serve as an index to 
the liberal impulses which mark his daily life and 
which have won for him the esteem of those who 
know him. 

Squire John Bccher. the father of our subject, 
was born in Bedford County, Pa.,. January 22, 1806, 
and in 1815 came to this county and made his 
home in Pike Township, where he is residing at 
the present time, being the second oldest citizen in 
the township. His father, Henry Becher, was a na- 
tive of Germany, having been born in Wittenberg, 
where his father died when he was two years old. 
He was then brought b}- his mother to America, 
she locating in Huntingdon Countj^ Pa., where the 
grandfather was reared to manhood. Being trained 
to farm pursuits, he worked out on farms by the 
day and month until attaining his majority, when 
he was married, and made his home in Bedford 
County, where he resided until the fall of 1815, at 
which time he came to this county. He was a pa- 
triot in the AVar of 1812, and served under Gen. 
William Henry Harrison in the battle in which 
Tecumseh was killed. Later, he was under the 
command of Oliver H. Perry at the battle of Lake 
Erie. His father-in-law, Mathias Brothers, had lo- 



cated in Pike Township in 1806, and after the 
close of the war, in 1813, Henry Becher visited 
this section on his way home and was so well 
pleased with the outlook that he purchased land 
on the southeast quarter of section 10. Returning 
to Pennsylvania, he disposed of his property there, 
and in the fall of 1815 came to Stark County and 
made this his future home. The journey, which was 
made across the mountains with a six-horse team, 
consumed six weeks' time, the route lying most 
of the time through a dense wilderness. 

(xrandfather Becher on arriving in this county 
made his home in a log cabin on an uncultivated 
tract of land, and was employed, like other [>io- 
neers of the da\-, in subduing Nature, clearing and 
breaking prairie, etc. Deer, bears and all kinds of 
wild animals were very numerous about his home, 
and he brought down manj' a deer with his trusts- 
old rifle. He was a very hard-working man, and 
was one well calculated to aid in the building up 
of a new country', being energetic, affable and 
kind-hearted. He resided on his farm until his 
decease, which occurred in his sixty-sixth year. 

The maiden name of our subject's grandmother 
was Magdalena Brothers; she was a native of Bed- 
ford County, Pa., and by her marriage with Henrj- 
Becher reared a family of four children, namelj': 
John, Peter, Mary and Elizabeth. She departed 
this life on the old home farm when sixty-eight 
years of age. The father of our subject was a lad 
of ten years when he accompanied his parents 
hither, and has quite a vivid recollection of the 
venturesome journey from Pennsylvania to this 
State. His education, which was begun in his na- 
tive State, was completed in the primitive schools 
near his new home, The temple of learning was 
a rude structure, seated with old-fashioned slab 
benches, and the writing-desk, which was placed 
under a long greased-paper window, consisted of a 
rough board, resting on pins driven in the wall for 
legs. The room was heated with a large open fire- 
place with a mud and stick chimney. 

John Becher remained on the home farm until 
reaching his twenty-third year, when he began life 
on his own account, and was married in 1829 to 
Miss Polly Failer, who, like himself, was also a na- 
tive of the Keystone State. She became the mother 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



243 



of one child, a son, Henry, and departed this life 
a few years after lier marriage. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Elizabeth Failer, and her marriage with Squire 
Hecher was solemnized in 1833. Siie was a cousin 
of his first wife, and became the motiier of five 
children, viz.: William, Mattie, Mary, Levi, and 
John (deceased). Siie was an active church- 
worker, and a devoted member of the German 
Reformed Church. Her death, which occurred in 
188f!, was a sad event in the liistoryof the family, 
who still hold iier in the most loving remembrance. 

After his first marriage, tlie father of our subject 
located on the farm now owned by Jeremiah A|)ley, 
in Pike Township, and there lived and labored 
until 1855, when, on account of ill health, he aban- 
doned agricultural pursuits, and, removing to 
Sparta, opened up a dry-goods store, which he 
conducted successfully for a number of years. He 
is now, however, living retired from active work 
of any kind, and is enjoying to the full the results 
of his early years of industrj' and economy. He 
has been eminently worthy and useful to the com- 
munity in which he is residing, and his neighbors 
and old friends unitedly bear testimony to his 
sterling worth, integrity and valuable services as 
a citizen. The Evangelical Lutheran Church finds 
in him an influential member and liberal contribu- 
tor. Subjected to many of the hardships and 
privations of pioneer life, the experiences tended 
but to strengthen his character, and made him more 
self-reliant, helpful toward others, and neigbborl^' 
in the truest sense of the word. 

In politics. Squire Becher is a Republican of no 
uncertain tone, and has been a strong advocate of 
the princii)les of the party ever since its organiza- 
tion. His first vote was cast 'for Henry Clay in 
1829. He has been very prominent in local affairs, 
and served as Postmaster of Sparta for a quarter 
of a century, and is thus widely and favorably 
known throughout the entire county. He has not 
only been a witness of the gradual growtii of the 
county from a sparsely inhabited wilderness to a 
populous and well-developed agricultural region, 
but it may be his pride that lie has helped to bring 
about the great transformation. He has served as 
Justice of the Peace for twelve ^ears, and was 



Township Clerk for twenty-one consecutive years, 
being the incumbent of that office, in all. twenty- 
five years. He was Assessor of Pike Township for 
till rty-five years, and is a gentleman whose influence 
for good is felt throughout this section. He is 
well known in this portion of tlie State, and in all 
matters pertaining to the good of his county, her 
upbuilding in material prosperity, her moral and 
educational advancement, and the social life of 
her citizens, Squire Becher takes an active and 
prominent part. 

William Becher of this sketch was reared to farm 
pursuits and received a good education in the dis- 
trict school. When nineteen years of age, he en- 
tered Oberlin College, and took a special course of 
study for five months. Tlie following winter he 
taught school, and during the summer he prose- 
cuted his studies in Mt. Union College. Tlien en- 
tering the Canton High School, he diligently applied 
himself to his books for several terms, after which 
he taught school for twelve winters, and worked 
on tlie farm in the intervals. 

The marriage of our subject was solemnized 
October 30, 1862, at which time Miss Eliza J. Hick- 
man became his wife. She was born in Washing- 
ton County, this State, September 15, 1843, and 
was only two years of age when brought to this 
county by her parents. To them has been granted 
a family of three children: Zua B., now the wife 
of the Rev. J. H. Sommers, of Bolivar, this State, 
and Rettie H., at home. The first child, John D., 
died at the age of six weeks. Both daughters have 
been given excellent educations and were both 
students for two years at tlie well-known Witten- 
berg College at Springfield. 

Daniel and Sarah (Black) Hickman, the parents 
of Mrs. Becher, on removing to this county located 
upon land wliicn had been entered from the Gov- 
ernment by Grandfather Peter Hickman. The 
estate, wiiich comprises three hundred and eighty- 
three acres, was leased until Mrs. Beciier's parents 
took possession of it. Iler father met with unu- 
sual success in his agricultural pursuits, and his 
honorable life won for him the confidence of all 
who knew him. In every position, in every place, 
his genial, hearty manners and pleasant bearing 
were magnetic and won for him hosts of friends. 



244 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Prior to coming hither, himself and wife were active 

members of the Presbyterian Church, but later 
identifieil themselves witli the Lutheran denomina- 
tion. Mr. Hickman was a stanch Republican in 
politics, and served as Trustee of Pike Township 
for many years. He departed this life at the ad- 
vanced age of eighty-three years, just forty-five 
years to the d.ay and hour after his arrival in the 
county, while his good wife, who preceded him to 
tlie better land, died in her sixty-nintii year. 

After his marriage, our subject resided for two 
and one-half years on the old home farm on sec- 
tion 4, when he moved to his father-in-law's farm, 
which estate he carried on in partnership with 
.Tames and Stewart Hickman, brothers of his wife. 
Mr. Becher is now, however, operating alone, liis 
farm comprising two i)undred and sixty-seven 
acres of excellent land, the most of which is rich, 
black, sandy loam, lying along the Big Sandj- 
River. He carries on mixed farming and ranks 
among the most prominent agriculturists of the 
county. His residence, wiiich is a commodious 
frame structure, is beautifully located on an eleva- 
tion overlooking the fertile valley of the Big 
Sandy, and is finisiied and furnished in a manner 
whicli indicates its occupants to be people of taste 
and means. 

Mr. and Mrs. Becher are members of the Lutlieran 
Church, in wliich denomination our subject is Dea- 
con. In his political atliliation, lie is a Republican 
and a strong McKinley Protectionist. 



fONAfS ESC'MLIM.\N, a progressive and 
_ practical farmer residing on section 30, 



J Lawrence Township, claims Pennsylvania 
.as the .State of his nativity. He was born 
in Lancaster County, Pa., about fifteen miles from 
the city of Lancaster, November 2, 1834. His fa- 
ther, Abraham Eschliman, was born in the same 
county in 1800, and after attaining to mature 
j'ears married Elizabeth Horst, also a native of that 



county. In 1837, they came with their family to 
Stark County, Ohio, and located upon the farm 
which is now the home of our subject. It was 
unimproved, but he transformed it into a valu- 
able tr.act of land and made his home thereon 
until his death in August, 1870. He was one of 
the leading farmers of the township and a promi- 
nent citizen. In politics, he was a Republican, 
and was a member of the Mennonite Church. 

I'nto Mr. and Mrs. Eschliman were born in 
Lancaster County, Pa., six sons and four daugh- 
ters, but the eldest died in infancy. Nancy died 
in Macon County, HI. She w.as twice married and 
was the mother of six children. Christian lives 
in Lawrence Township; Elizabeth is the wife of 
Levi Weaver, of Elkhart County, Ind.; Susan is 
the wife of John A. Hoover, also of Elkhart 
County; Abraham resides in Nebraska; David 
makes his home in Montcalm County, JNIich.; John 
died in Pennsylvania in 1837; Samuel lives in 
Lawrence Township. 

Our subject is the youngest of the famil}'. He 
came with his parents to the Buckeye State 
when in his third year, and was here reared and 
educated. On the 1st of March, 1855, he married 
Miss Fannie Martin, who was born in York 
County, Pa., June 26, 1834, and was brought to 
AVayne County, Ohio, in 1835. Her death oc- 
curred November 18, 1861. Four children graced 
that marriage: Elizabeth A., now the wife of 
William K. W^-se, of Ford County, 111.; Jacob 
M., of Lawrence Township; Nancy I., who died 
April 13, 1888; and Jonas E., of Lawrence Town- 
ship, who was only a week old at the time of his 
mother's death. 

Mr. Eschliman was again married. November 
26, 1863, this time to Miss Martha Martin, a sis- 
ter of his first wife. She was born in Wayne 
County, Ohio, April 11, 1839, and was called to 
her final rest on the 19th of September, 1891. 
Nine children were born of the second marriiige, 
but the eldest died in infanc3'. John H. is living 
in Lawrence Township; he married Miss Amelia 
Weaver, of AVaj'ne County, Ohio, and they have 
two children, Alvin R. and William E. Abram 
W., Mary I., Amos M., Ezra A., Daniel R., Will- 
iam H. and Martha M. are at home. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFX'ORD. 



245 



After his marriage, Mr. Eschlinian located on 
a farm about a quarter of a mile from his present 
home. He there spent one year and then located 
upon the old homestead where he was reared, and 
where he lias reared a family of his own. He has 
a fine farm of two hundred acres under a high 
state of cultivation. There is a fine orchard, and 
the many improvements upon the place indicate 
the thrift and enterprise of the owner, who through- 
out life lias followed general farming. lie also en- 
gages in stock-raising to some extent, making a 
specialty- of horses and cattle. His business career 
has been a successful one, and he now enjoys a 
well-merited prosperity. 

Mr. Eschliman is a strong Republican in i)oli- 
tics. For three terms he was elected Trustee, and 
also served as School Director for many years. He 
is a member of the Mennonite Church and takes 
an active part in church work. He is recognized 
as one of the valued citizens of the community, 
and his upright life and sterling worth have won 
him hiijh regard. 



"if? AMES M. CLARK is a most excellent gen- 
tleman, whom it is a pleasure to know, 
and who has many warm personal friendsi 
not only in Massillon, where he resides, 
but throughout Stark County. He takes a promi- 
nent part in all affairs relating to the welfare of 
ills community, and by means of energy, tact 
and good judgment he has made a success of his 
business, that of a wholesale fruit dealer, his place 
of business being located on Exchange Street. 

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch 
was born in Oneida County, N. Y., May 12, 1842, 
and is a son of Thomas Clark, who was born 
in Lincolnshire, England, in 1812. The latter- 
named gentleman was reared to farming pursuits 
in his native country, and when coming to the 
United States in iiis nineteenth year located in 
Oneida County, where he was employed on a 
farm. He later bought a farm m New York State 



and there resided until his decease, which oc- 
curred in the year 1889. As an agriculturist, 
he occupied a high place among his brethren, 
and in religious affairs was a member of the 
Universalist Church. Politically, he voted the 
Democratic ticket. 

Maria (Brockham) Clark, the niollier of our sub- 
ject, was born in Schenectady, N. Y. Her father 
participated in the War of 1812. Mrs. Clark died 
in New York, after having become the mother of 
eight children, five of whom are living. James 
M., of this sketch, was reared on his father's farm 
and obtained a fair education in the schools near 
his home. He remained under the parental roof 
until reaching his majority, when he learned the 
butcher's trade and later owned and operated a 
market in Waterville, N. Y. He remained thus 
engaged until 1869, when he disposed of his in- 
terests and the following year came West and lo- 
cated at Massillon, where he was given the posi- 
tion of Superintendent of the Excelsior Agricul- 
tural Works, onned b^y E. B. Bayless. After 
various removals, Mr. Clark entered the employ of 
Russell (fe Co., as Superintendent of outside work, 
remaining with them for thre'fe j'ears, and at 
the expiration of that time became the proprietor 
of the Fremont House, which he operated for a 
twelvemonth. 

In 1884, our subject started in his present busi- 
ness on North Main Street, which has gradually 
grown until it is now ranked among the lead- 
ing enterprises of the city. In 1887, he re- 
moved to his large building, which is 80x60 feet in 
dimensions and three stories in height. He han- 
dles all kinds of fruit, which he receives direct 
from the importers, and in variety and ciuality 
can compete with any establishment in Cleveland 
or larger cities. He also keeps on hand in their 
season all kinds of oysters, and from this line of 
business derives a handsome income. Mr. Clark 
also is largely eng.aged in the oil business and is 
one of the prominent and inogressive citizens of 
the place. 

The lady who became the wife of our subject 
in August, 1872, was Miss Ellen Chandler, who 
was born in this State. Their family of three 
children includes a son and two daughters, namely: 



246 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



William. Nellie and Florence. ]Mrs. Clark is a 
regular attend.ant and active memlier of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. Mr. Clark is a jjuljlic- 
spirited man and takes great pride in fulfilling 
the obligations of life, both great and small, and 
is iiighly esteemed by liis business associates. He 
is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, 
and though by no means an ollice-seeker, is greatlj' 
interested in the welfare of his party. 



^=m>-^^<m 



^p«Il()MAS DILLON. One of tlie most im- 
[//{^^ porlant points in the building of a house or 
^^^' other structure to be inhabited is the plumb- 
ing. The least defect in the piping may cause 
sickness and death, as it has too often done, with- 
out the cause being known until too late. Fevers, 
etc., lurk in defective drainage and sewer connect- 
ing pipes, and it is absolutely necessary, therefore, 
that tlie work should be done by a competent 
sanitary plumber. Prominent among those in this 
line of business in Alassillon is Thomas .T. Dillon, 
who is a member of the firm of Knapp & Dillon, 
who are engaged in plumbing, and gas, steam and 
hot water fitting. 

Mr. Dillon was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 
Loth of June, 1842, and his father, Capt. (Jeorge 
W. Dillon, was born in (Guernsey Count}', this 
State. The grandfather. Samuel Dillon, 'was a 
native of one of the Eastern States, and was a car- 
penter by trade. He emigrated to the Buckeye 
State at an early date, made the journey with 
teams and wagons, and settled in Guernsey County, 
where he remained for some time. From theic he 
removed to Wheeling, W. Va., where he engaged in 
carpentering, contracting and building, and w;is 
very successful in this enterprise. He served in the 
War of 1812, and later removed to near Spring- 
field, 111., where his death occurred. He was of 
Irish descent .and iniierited the quick wit and in- 
dustry' of those of his nationality. 

The fatlier of our subject. Capt. (ieorgc W. 
Dillon, was a ship carpenter by trade, and Iniill a 



great many boats. Later in life, he became owner 
and master of a vessel and engaged in the cotton 
trade on the Red Rivei' from Shreveport to New 
Orleans. This he followed for years, or until he 
retired, about 1877. He is now residing in Col- 
umbus with a daughter, and is eighty years of age. 
Formerly a Whig, he now advocates the principles 
of the Republican party. He married Miss Mar\' 
Pawson, a native of Yorkshire, England, and the 
daughter of William Pawson, who followed the 
occupation of a wheelwright. He settled in Cin- 
cinnati, (Jliio, at an early date, and there followed 
his trade until his death in 1861, when seventy- 
two years of age. The mother of our subject died 
in Columbus in 188(5. when sixty-eight ^-cars of 
age. Tiiree of the five children born to Capt. and 
Mrs. Dillon grew to mature years and twoaienow 
living. 

The eldest of these children, Thomas .T. Dillon, 
was born on the banks of the Ohio River and re- 
mained there until eleven years of age, when lie 
removed with his parents to Wheeling, W. Va. 
He attended school in all aliout fifteen j-ears, and 
in 18.5G he was apprenticed to leain the trade of a 
plumber and gas and steam fitter in Wheeling, serv- 
ing for five years. In August, 1861, he enlisted at 
Wheeling, W. Va., in Company' G, and was in a 
number of skirmishes. Later, he w.as in the battle 
of Cedar Mountain, the second battle ^>f Manassas, 
and Antietam, under McClellan; he afterward had 
so severe an attack of fever that he was sent to the 
hospital. Later, he was appointed Assistant Hospital 
Steward under Dr. Lewis, and was thus engaged for 
one year. He was honorably discharged at Cumber- 
land, in October, 1864, and came home. 

Mr. Dillon engaged .as a journeyman at his trade 
in Wheeling in the fall of 1865, but had the misfor- 
tune to s])rain his arm and w.as obliged to abandon 
his trade. In March, 1867, he went to Ft. Ben- 
ton. Mont., on the Missouri River, and there 
rciiiaiii('<l two years, being mechanical engineer 
in a (|uart/. mill, and putting uj) two mills, one 
on each side of the slope. After recovering, 
ill' returned to Wheeling and followed Ids trade 
lIuMi' until Im7'.i, after which he came to Ohio 
and located in Canton, engaging in trade with 
a brother there, Jn 1881, he located in MaS' 



K)RTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



sillon and started the large enterprise now op- 
erated by Knapp it Dillon, l)uying out J. h\ Hess 
& Co. This business is located on the corner of 
North Erie and North Streets, and is the largest 
concern of the kind in the city. 

Mr. Dillon was married in 1874 to Miss Louisa 
.T. Wheeler, a native of Pittsburgh but who was 
reared in Wheeling. One child is the result of 
this union. T. T., who is collector in the First 
National Bank. Mr. Dillon has an adopted child, 
Margaret M. Davis, who is now clerking in Massil- 
lon. Our subject is a Master Mason and is a 
member of Hart Post No. 134, G. A. R. In relig- 
ion, he is an Episcopalian and in politics a Repub- 
lican. 



^a,.{"5.**t 



y^ILLIAM L. MILLER. The labors whicli have 
resulted in tlie present high state of devel- 
^J^ opment of the agricultural resources of 
Stark County have been largely participated in by 
the gentleman above named, who is one of the 
prominent farmers and old residents of Plain 
Township. He takes great interest in the welfare 
of this section, which fact is accounted for by his 
liaving been born here, iiis natal day being August 
22, 1829. 

Henry Miller, our subject's father, was born in 
Pennsylvania in 17i)l, and was of German descent. 
In his native State he followed the occupations of 
mason and shoemaker, prosecuting the former call- 
ing during the summer and the latter during the 
winter season. On coming to this countj' in a 
very early day, lie located on an unimproved tract 
of land in Centre Township, his first purchase com- 
prising ten acres of timber land. He set himself 
industriously to work felling the trees, and erected 
a log cabin, where he made his home for the fol- 
lowing ten years. At the expiration of tliat time, 
he disposed of his farm and bought one hundred 
and eight acres of land in Lake Township, which, 
like the former tract, was in its primitive condi- 
tion, and here again lie began the work of clearing 
and placing under cultivali'ni liis farm. Wild ani- 



mals were very plentiful around his forest home, 
and Mr. Miller, being very fond of hunting, kept 
his family constantl}' supplied with choice fresh 
meats. The marketing in that early daj' was done 
l)rincii)ally at Cleveland, and often a load of wheat 
was exclianged for a barrel of salt and side of sole 
leather. 

The father of our subject partially developed 
the farm in Lake Township, when he sold it and 
became the owner of property in Portage County, 
where he resided until attaining his fifty-eighth 
year. He was a hard worker and a good manager 
and placed himself among the most substantial citi- 
zens of his township, being highly regarded by 
friends and associates. He was a member of the 
German Reformed Church, and actively' interested 
in the welfare of the Democratic party. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Elizabeth Freiberger, and she was a native of 
Pennsylvania. By her union with Mr. Miller she 
became the mother of fifteen children, twelve of 
whom grew to mature years. She preceded her 
husband to the better land, dying when only 
thirt3'-eight j-ears of age. The brothers and sisters 
of our subject were .John, Ileniy, Samuel, Peter, 
Catherine. Rachel, Mary, Elizabeth, Annie, Susanna 
and Adam. The father of these children chose for 
his second wife Miss.Tulien Essig, and the following- 
named five children were the result of their union: 
Joseph, .Jacob, Adam, Simon and Harriet. 

The original of this sketch was educated in the 
old log-cabin schoolhouse, whose primitive fur- 
nishings have so often been described in this vol- 
ume. He remained at home until the death of his 
father, when he began life for himself and worked 
for one man ten years, a Mr. .Jacob II. Bair, which 
fact speaks well for both emploj-er and employe. 
The marriage of Mr. Miller was solemnized March 
6, 18.55, at which time Miss Priscilla Miller, who, 
like hv.v husband, was also a native of this town- 
ship, became his wife. Their family comprised eight 
children, one of whom died in infancy. Those liv- 
ing are Menodous R., Marvy M., Marlin C., Will- 
iam M., Mary M., Martha M.. Maiideiia M. and 
Magneo M. Milton M. is deceased. 

After their marriage, Jlr. and Mrs. Miller lived 
on rented land for eighteen monlhs, when tlie\' 



248 



PORTRAIT A^■D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



purchased fifty acres of partially improTed land 
in this township, where they made their home for 
twelve jears. Disposing of that tract, he rented 
for another year, and for the same length of 
time resided in Cairo. In the year 1869. he 
purchased his present estate, which comprises sev- 
en tv-one acres, all of which are under the best 
methods of improvement, with the excejition of 
eleven acres of tim1>er land.. Mr. Miller devotes 
his attention to mixed farming, and has been more 
than ordinarily successful in his chosen field of 
operations. 

Our subject and his-estim.ible wife .are memljers 
in good standing of the German Reformed Church, 
and exert a wide influence for good in their com- 
munity. Mr. Miller is a believer in Demticratic 
principles, and takes an intelligent view of the 
political situation of the day. 



T OHN WHITMORE w.is for many years one 
tif the most practical farmei-s in Tuscarawas 
Township. A native of this county, he has 
_ aided greatly in the task of making it a 
rich and prosperous farming region. He was bom 
February lH. 1840. and was the son of John and 
Martha Whitmorc. natives of Pennsylvania and 
early settlers in this county. His mother, wb.o is 
still residing in the above township, is one of the 
old and respecte<l citizens of the county, and bas 
been an eye-witness of its marvelous growth and 
development. 

Young Whitmore received the rudiments of hio 
education in the si'hools of his native place, but 
gained the gi-eater part of his knowledge by i-ead- 
ing and experience. His home life from early 
boyhood was devoted to agricultural pui-suits, and 
he bore an honorable jxirt in developing the farm- 
ing interests of his township, and in time im- 
proved an exc-ellent estate. His marriage with 
Miss Elniira R. Mclntttsh w.is solemnized M.iy 17, 
1867. The lady, who was born in this .Stale JSep- 



tember 11, 1850, was the danghter of John and 

Annie (Bixler) Mcintosh, and by their union was 
born a family of four children, two of whom are 
deceased. Those living are Benjamin ¥.. who was 
born June 20. 1880. and Cora B.. born July 14. 

1884. William H. and Charles are deceased. 

He whose name introduces this sketch was for his 
entire life a stanch Republic-an in jxilitics. and in 
favor of all things that would in any way elevate 
society, and contribute to the happiness and well- 
being of the people. He died at his home April 2. 

1885. and the community mourned the loss of one 
of Its most trusted and worthy citizens, while yet 
he W.IS in middle life, before the infirmities of age 
had impaired his usefulness. Those who knew him 
si>eak highly of his character, and remember hiiu 
as one who tilled all the relations of life in a 
manly, upright manner. He was a kind husband, 
a loving father, a friendly neighbor, and many 
mourned his departure. In him the German Re- 
formed Chureh found one of its most devoted 
members. At his death he left an estate compris- 
ing eighty eight acres of valuable land, which, un- 
der his widow's supervision, is making handsome 
returns. 

John Mcintosh, the father of Mrs. Whitmore. 
was bom in this county. August 10. 1825. and was 
the son of John and Catherine (Donot) Mcintosh, 
natives. res[)ectively. of .Scotland and Pennsyl- 
vania. The grandfather of Mi-s. Whitmore came 
to .Stark County early in the '2<»s. and located 
on a farm in the woixls of Perry Township, 
where he died when Mr. Jlclntosh was a lad 
in his fourth year. He re.Tre<1 a family of six 
children, five of whom are still living, viz: Mary. 
Lydia. .lohn. Hannah and Peter. Elizal>eth is 
deceased. 

The father <:>f Mi-s. Whitmore was reared to man- 
hood amid the scenes of pioneer life in this county, 
and rememK'i^ the time when wolves and other 
wild game abounded, and the homes of the scat- 
tered jK'pul.Hce were in the timber, along the banks 
of the jtreams. He received a fair education, and. 
when attaining his nineteenth year, learned the 
trade of a plasterer, which he followed for some 
thirty yeai-s. By the death of his father, he was 
thrown upon his own resouives when quite young. 



rORTRAlT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



251 



but in the various enterprises which he has fol- 
lowed, has always been successful, and he is to- 
day one of the substantial men of Tuscarawas 
Township. 

The lady to wliom Mr. Mcintosh was married 
bore the maiden name of Annie Bixler, a daughter 
of Samuel Bixler, an early settler in Bethlehem 
Township. To them were granted tlie following 
children : Elniiia, Frances, Samuel. Sarah A., Aman- 
da, Milton, Cora, Peter and Franklin. After 
his niarri.age, Mr. Mclntosli made his home for 
a twelvemonth in Tuscarawas Township, and 
then, taking up his abode in Bethlehem Town- 
sliip, lived there for a number of years, when 
he moved to his present farm. He is the pos- 
sessor of a quarter-section of fine land in this 
township, which bears all the improvements found 
upon the place of an enterprising and progressive 
agriculturist. Politically speaking, he is a sound 
Democrat, and, in a religious sense, he is equally 
as sound in the faith of the German Reformed 
Church, which denomination he has served as 
Deacon for many years. 



^^ 



jOBERT A. PINN, formerly .Timior Vice- 
commander of the (irand Avmy of the 
ii\v Reiniblic, Department of Ohio, is num- 
'^;5> '^^'■*^'^ among the many colored men who 
did heroic service for the Union during the late 
war. lie was one of the first to ofTer his services 
to the Government, but was refused on account of 
color. Nothing daunted, he went out with the 
old Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, and in 18G2, learn- 
ing of the movement to organize a compan}- here, 
returned and joined the Fifth Regiment, and also 
induced a few of his colored friends to do like- 
wise. He has one of the liest war records in the 
State of Ohio, and is most highly respected wher- 
ever known. 

In Perry Township, Stark County, Mr. Pinn 
was born March 1,1843. His father, a native of 
Fauquier County, Va„ was born in bondage, and 
12 



lived with his mother's relatives until eighteen 
years old, when he ran away from home and came 
to Steuben ville, Ohio, and learned the trade of a 
blacksmith in that place. About 1822, he came to 
Canton, where he remained until his marriage ten 
years later. He then purchased a farm in Perry 
Township, the old homestead now owned 113- our 
subject, and gave his attention to agricultural pur- 
suits until his death in the fall of 1874, aged 
sevcntv-five years. He was a man of splendid 
information, jiarticularly in ancient history, and 
his retentive memory enabled him to store his 
mind with an abundance of valuable knowledge. 
In religious preference, he was a Congregationalist, 
and was very familiar with the Scriptures. Po- 
litically, he was a Republican and an Abolitionist. 

The mother of our subject, Zilphia Broxon,was 
born in Mercer County, Pa., of English descent, 
and her relatives were large land-owners in the 
Keystone State. She died in Perry Towusliij), 
leaving ten childien, seven of whom grew to ma- 
ture j^ears. Our subject, who was the sixth in the 
family, was reared on the home farm, and when 
eleven years old commenced to learn the trade of 
a broom manufacturer. In the fall of 1861, as 
the United States would not then take colored 
troops, he went out with the Nineteenth Ohio In- 
fantry under the care of Major-Surgeon Ilurx- 
thal. He marched South with the regiment, and 
when the battle commenced at Shiloh, could not 
resist the impulse, but seized a musket and jum|)ed 
into the thickest of the fight. Afterward, he par- 
ticipated in several other engagements, where he 
was conspicuous for bravery. As soon as colored 
troops were allowed to enter the service, he en- 
listed, and, as above stated, persuaded some of 
his friends to do the same. 

Mr. Pinn was appointed Sergeant, and later First 
Sergeant, and in the latter capacity marched from 
Norfolk, ^'n., and assisted in breaking up a band of 
guerrillas that infested the swamps of South Mr- 
giniaand northern North Carolina. In the spring 
of 1864, the regiment proceeded to the front of 
Petersburg and Richmond, where the}- were con- 
stantly on duty. September 29, there occurred 
the great battles of Chapin's Farm, New Market 
Heights and Ft, Harrison, and in these three dis. 



252 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



tinct engagements of that day the regiment with 
which Sergeant Pinn was connected played a 
most important part, and the long rows of the 
dead showed liow fatal was that part as well as 
prominent. When the sun rose on that day, five 
hundred and fifty men stood in ranks, and when it 
went down onlj- two hundred and eight were left 
to answer the roll call, three hundred and forty- 
two having fallen by the wayside. Of these, nine 
commissioned officers were wounded, two hundred 
and forty-eight enlisted men wounded and eighty- 
five killed. 

At the first volley- in the morning, the Captain 
was wounded, and tlie command fell to Sergeant 
Pinn, who led the troops through the series of 
fights that day, although three times wounded 
himself. Tlie first wound was received in the left 
thigii; the second wound, which was caused by a 
siiell penetrating the left limb, so disabled him 
that he could not walk, but he detailed two men 
to carrj' him at the head of his company through 
all the fight, .lust before the close of the battle 
when Ft. Harrison was captured, about five o'clock 
he received a terrible wound in the right shoulder 
as he was coming over the hill and, with cap in 
hand, was shouting words of encouragement to his 
men. He became unconscious, and the men who 
had carried him to tlie front laid him on the field 
in that state. 

Although terribly wounded, our subject refused 
to be discharged, and as soon as he could travel, 
rejoined his company, and served until the close 
of the war. For gallant conduct that daj', he was 
awarded two medals, one from Congress and the 
other from Gen. Butler. To-day tiiese medals are 
more to him than the meinorj' of shoulder straps, 
which would liave been awarded him had he 
been a white man. He was discharged at Caro- 
lina City, September 20, 186.5, and returned to 
Stark County. 

After ills return, Mr. Pinn engaged in teaming 
and contracting until the spring of 1874, when he 
sold his business, anil went to Oberlia College, 
pursuing the course of studies there for four 
years and employing his leisure hours in reading 
law with Prof. Thomas. He finished his legal 
studies at Massillou with R. H. Folger, and was 



admitted to the Bar in 1879, at once beginning the 
practice of his profession. He is now actively en- 
gaged as an attorney, being United Slates Pension 
Attorney, and having charge of all tlie local pension 
business here. 

In addition to the old homestead, Mr. Pinn 
owns eighty acres in Tuscarawas Township and a 
residence at No. 96 Akron Street, in Massillon. 
He married, in 1867, Miss Emily J. Manzilla, who 
was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, her demise 
occurring April 25, 1890. Socially. Mr. Pinn is 
identified with the Masonic fraternity and tlie In- 
dependent Orderof Odd Fellows. He is a prominent 
member of Hart Post No. 134, G. A. R.,at Massil- 
lon, which he lias served as Post Commander. In 
1888, he was Junior Vice-de[)artment-commander 
of Ohio. He takes deep interest in all Grand 
Arm}' matters, and attends all the National En- 
campments. He is a strong Rei)ublican, and 
served his party as delegate to the State conven- 
tion which nominated William McKinley Gover- 
nor of Ohio. 



^^^ AMUEL BOWMAN. Intelligent, thrifty, 
^^^ wide-awake fanners form the greater part 
'w^J ^^ ''''^ population of Stark County, and 
among these our subject occupies a credit- 
able position. He is one of the prominent farmers 
of Pike Township, and was born on his jjieseiit 
farm, on section 13, February 18, 1827. .Jacob 
Bowman, his father, was born in Northumberland 
County, Pa., February 22, 1777, and was of German 
descent. He came to this section as early as 18 IG. 
emigrating hither across the mountains in company 
with five families. The journey was made with 
teams and wagons and consumed five weeks. Jacob 
Bowman first located in Canton Township, two 
m.iles east of tiie now prosperous city of Canton, 
where lie lived for two years, and then, coming to 
Pike Township, entered a quarter-section of land 
from the Government. He rented property until 
he could make improvements on his own farm, and 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



253 



after erecting a log cabin on the place moved into 
it. Indians and wild animals often jjroved very 
troublesome, but as tlie years passed by and the 
country became more thickly popiilated, tlioy grad- 
uall}' disappeared. 

The parents of oursubject were possessed of that 
indomitable perseverance that is bound to succeed, 
and when taking up their abode in the new coun- 
try they worked hard, the father clearing the land 
and the mother spinning and weaving cloth, from 
which she made wearing appare! for the family. 
Jacob Bowman died at his home, when eighty-two 
years of age. He was an active and devoted mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church, and donated the land 
for the church building, to the erectii)n of which 
he contributed liberally of his means. He was an 
old-line AVhigin politics, and enjoyed a good rep- 
utation in business circles, as a man of honesty and 
uprightness of cliaracter. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Hannah Klinger. .She was a native of Pennsylvania 
and by her union with Mr. Bowman became the mo- 
ther of the following children: Polly, Sally, Cath- 
erine. Lydia, Hannah, .John, Henr>', Jacob and Sam- 
uel. The wife and mother died at the age of 
eighty-eight years and, like her husband, was also 
a conscientious member of the Lutheran Church. 

The original of this sketch made the best of his 
advantages for receivijig an education and when 
not busy on the faim attended the district school 
and conned his lessons or. a slab bench, by the 
light of a greased-paper window. He proved of 
great assistance in aiding in the development of 
the farm and remained at home until twenty- 
two j'ears of age, when he established a fireside of 
his own and was married to Elizabeth Brothers, 
the date thereof being February 2.'). 1849. Of their 
imion have been born four children: Hiiam, Mat- 
tie, Levi, and Albert, who died at the .age of two 
years. The wife and mother died in 1857, greatly 
mourned by her numerous friends and acquaint- 
ances. 

The lady tliat^]\Ir._Bowman chose as his second 
wife was Miss Lucinda Van Meter, of Pike Town- 
ship. She died in 1870, and the present wife of our 
subject, prior to their marriage, was Mrs. Ann Ander- 
son, IMr, Bowman formerly owned one hundred 



and sixty acres of valuable land, but has since sold 
eighty acres to his son and retains the other half 
for his own use. He carries on mixed farming and 
makes a specialty of raising fine and coarse wool 
sheep. The Christian Church, which lie has served 
for many years as Elder, finds in him one of its 
most suijstantial and influential members. He affili- 
ates with the Republican party in politics, and is 
greatly interested in the progress of his community. 
He has served as Land Appraiser of Pike Town- 
ship for two terms and during the incumbency of 
the office gave satisfaction to all concerned. 




OLUMBUS T. WALKER, M. D. The phy- 
sicians of Canton, Ohio, are men who com- 
pare favorably with tliose of any of the 
older cities of the State in point of learning as 
well .as in skill and ability as practitioners; and to 
entitle their successors to high rank among then- 
professional brethren of the country at large, it 
only remains for them to sustain the character 
which already has been given to the profession of 
this city. Among the busiest of this class of men, 
who bore the burdens [jlaced upon them by patrons 
whose respect and confidence they won by their 
own efforts, is Dr. Walker, who has been a success- 
ful general practitioner. He was born in Freder- 
ick City, Md.. June 28, 182(;, the f urth <if 
nine children born to Dr. John I), and Catherine 
E. (Wiest) Walker, liotli of whom were horn in 
Maryland, in which State they grew to maturity 
and married. In 1829, they removed to Tuscara- 
was County, Ohio, wheie the father at once began 
practicing medicine, a calling which he continued 
with success until his death. 

The subject of this sketch was but three years 
of age when brouglit to this .State, and here he 
passed a rather uneventful bo^yhood, but had the 
inestimable advantage of a free, open-air life, with 
a sufficient amount of healthful occupation. At 
the age of eighteen ^years, he returned to Maryland, 



254 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



where he spent three j'ears. In 1850, he was mar- 
ried to Mis^s Mary J. Riinyon, of Jeflferson Country, 
Ohio, daughter of Louis Ruu_von,soon after which 
he settled in Summit County, where lie was 
engaged in general farming, and at the same time 
practiced medicine and dealt in real estate. In 
1863, he removed to Stark County, where he fol- 
lowed the same occupations, was successful and 
made money rapidly. 

Since 1870, he has been a resident of the city of 
Canton, where he is living a somewhat retired life, 
in the enjoyment of the large means which he ac- 
cumulated. He has some valuahle relics in his 
possession, one of which is a compass used by Gen. 
"Washington in surveying lauds in Virginia, and 
which was later used in surveying the line of the 
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and some articles 
which once belonged to Henry Clay. He is a pro- 
nounced Democrat in politics, and supports the 
men and measures of that party on all occasions. 
He alwa^-s votes intelligently, for he keeps thor- 
oughly posted on all the current topics of the daj^, 
and his reasons for his convictions are always 
clear and well defined. 

His career has been a useful and laborious one, 
and he has the satisfaction of knowing that the 
propertj- of which he is now possessor has been 
accumulated through his own shrewd, yet alwaj's 
honorable, business tactics. In the various call- 
ings in which he has been engaged, he has dis- 
played an unusual amount of intelligence, and his 
practical ideas on all subject* arc to be admired. 



'^! F. PORTMANN. Among the successful 
(@/L| business men of Massillon, Ohio, who are 
A of foreign birth, stands A. F. Portmann, 
who- is actively engaged in the house-fur- 
nishing business and also carries a full line of 
slate, tin and steel roofing. Mr. Portmann was 
born in the Canton of Solothurn, Switzerland, on 
the 16th of January, 1855, and was the fifth in 
( rder of birtli of ten children, five sons and five 



daughtei-s, born to Victor and Mary A. (Hug) 
Portmann, both natives of Switzerland. 

The father followed the occupation of an archi- 
tect and surveyor, and was a college-bred man. 
In 1869, he braved Neptune's tender mercies and 
came to America, settling for the first three years in 
Navarre, Ohio. Later he came to Canton and en- 
gaged as a German school teacher for some time. 
He was a man of an unusually active, bright mind, 
and was .an educator of prominence. He was a de- 
vout member of the Catholic Church, and died in 
that faith in 1873, when fiftj-nine jears of age. 
Mis wife is still living and is a resident of Canton. 

Our subject was reared in Switzerland and at- 
tended German school until fourteen years of age. 
In April, 1861), he left Hanover, Germany, on the, 
steamer, '-Zalla," with his parents, and landed with 
them in New York City fourteen days later. For 
three years he was in Navarre, Ohio, where he at- 
tended school during the winter and assisted in a 
flour mill during the summer. In 1872, he came to 
Canton and was apprenticed to learn the tinsmith 
trade with H. Wernet & Bros., with whom he re- 
mained for three years. After finishing his ap- 
prenticeship, he worked for this firm for five years, 
and was then with Ball it Portmann as partner, for 
one year, in the tin-roofing and jobbing business. 

In 1879, he came to Massillon, started the 
house-furnishing business and was also engaged in 
manufacturing tinware under the firm name of 
Wernet it Portmann, with headquarters on West 
Main Street. There they continued for two years, 
but the increase in business obliged them to seek 
more commodious quarters, and they located at 
Nos. 36 and 38 South Erie Street, where they 
carry on a flourishing business and are meeting 
with excellent success. In 1885, Mr. Portmann 
started the slate, tin and steel roofing business, 
and now superintends the work. In 1891, he bought 
his partner out, and has since continued the busi- 
ness alone. He has a large double store, two 
floors, and has recently built a warehouse, 35x18 
feet. This is the largest establishment of the kind 
in the city, and twelve hands are employed during 
the season. 

Mr. Portmann has a comfortable home at No. 
61 South Street, and this is presided over by his wife, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



255 



who was formerly Miss Louisa Fries, a native of 
Mass! lion, Ohio, whom he wedded in 1882. Her 
father, John Fries, was a native of Germany, and 
was foreman for Russell <fe Company for neaily 
forty years. He is now in Norwalk, Ohio. Mrs. 
Portmann was reared and educated in her native 
town and was graduated from the schools here. .She 
afterward taught school here for four years, and 
in St. .losepii for some time. Three children have 
been born to Mr. and Mrs. Portmann and are 
named as follows: Frank. Howard and Helen. 
'Sir. Portmann is a charter member of the Catholic 
^lutual Beneiit Association and is a member of St; 
Mary's Cliureh. In liis political views, he is Dem- 
ocratic. 









ENRY B O W M A X. Throughout Stark 
County this gentleman enjoys an enviable 
reputation as a reliable citizen and upright 
i^f) man. He is a native of this county, having 
been born on the farm in Sandy Township where 
be is at present residing, February 5, 1840. John 
Bowman, his father, was born in Pennsylvania, 
and came here with his parents when a lad of seven 
years. He was educated in the pioneer log school- 
house with its primitive furnishings, and, being 
an apt pupil, made the best of his limited advan- 
tages, and is to-day a well-read and intelligent 
gentleman, keeping himself thoroughly informed 
on events of national and local interest. 

John Bowman was reared to manhood in his 
forest home, and when starting out in life, left 
home and engaged as fireman on a steamboat ply- 
ing upon the Ohio River. He was only thus em- 
ployed a short time, however, when he purchased 
the farm where he is at present residing, and, mov- 
ing into the log cabin which he had erected, im- 
mediately began the arduous work of clearing and 
developing this property-. He w.as a hard worker 
and a good manager, and at his death, which oc- 
curred in 1886, he left a valuable farm. AVith his 
wife, wlio bore the maiden name of Lvdia AVhit- 



mer, he was a member of the Lutheran Church. 
The mother of our subject was a native of Bethle- 
hem Township, this county, and reared a family 
of eightchildren, viz.: Sarah, Mary, .John, .Samuel, 
Henry, Hannah, YAi and Lydia. Lydia. Mary, John 
and Samuel are deceased, the latter dying while 
confined in Libby Prison. Mrs. Bowman was in 
her seventy -seventh year at the time of her death. 
Her father, Benjamin Whitmer, was one of the 
pioneers of the above-named township, his nearest 
neighbor being four miles distant. He developed 
a good farm from the wilderness and died at 
an advanced age, greatly respected by all who 
knew him. 

He of whom we write, like other lads in his 
neighborhood, conned his lessons in the old-fash- 
ioned schoolhouse with its slab benches and rude 
furnishings. He was thoroughly- trained in farm 
work and remained under the parental roof, assist- 
ing his father in performing various kinds of labor, 
until the outbreak of the Civil War, when he laid 
aside the implements of peace and enlisted October 
12, 1861, in Company K, Fifty-first Ohio Infantry, 
being mustered in at Camp Meigs. Thence he was 
sent with his regiment into Kentucky, where they 
were engaged in skirmishing, after which they 
went to Nashville, Tenn., and later to the Cum- 
berland Mountains, and from there followed Gen. 
Bragg through Tennessee and Kentucky to Louis- 
ville, where they had several skirmishes. Then 
still in pursuit of that General with his company, 
he fought at Perry ville, Ky., and later, returning 
to Nashville, remained there until December 24, 
1862i when thej- were sent to Stone River and 
fought in that engagement. In that battle, Mr. 
Bowman was injured by the explosion of a siiell. 
Later, he participated in the battles of Chicka- 
mauga, Chattanooga (where the Union forces were 
surrounded and nearly starved to death) Lookout 
Mountain and Mission Ridge. His regiment then 
went into winter quarters at Shell Mound, and in 
the spring of 1864 participated in tiie following 
engagements: Resaca. Buzzard's Roost, Burnt 
Hickory, Pine Top, Atlanta and Jonesboro. Later, 
going to Athens, Ala., their train was wrecked and 
Mr. Bowman was violently thrown into a black- 
berry patch and seriously injured in the back. 



m 



POKIKAn AXD mOGRAPHICAI. BECOBD. 



Ob KCMTn^ Us h owora Mc discfcuse XoTcmber 
7. l^M. oar sabjeH rKaraed bi^K aad asaia le- 
snaed his octrnpoitic* of farmer. *t tke Tinr tiae 
vmkiBg soMe at ifae cu)>es«er'< trade. His ^ar- 
rii^e with MkiS' El(z:&hedi Farter O Mi wd Decem- 
ber i5. 1^*$^ The hdy was bora jaet acvceB ike 
line, in CaivoU CovaU". aad br her naioa with 
Mr. Bo«iBa» became the Mother of fiw chii- 
dpa: Joha F, Emm E_ Fraiaklu P_ Haa^^ie IL 
and liary A. 

Theceigwal of dus^etch is the pro p rie to r of 
a qBarter-sectioa of excelleat famd. which he has 
cleared, asd iaproTed vith ■■Moro^aad sariietas- 
tial boildii^s. UK^ethcr vith all dK weeesarr fium 
Mariwaerr. His iai^ f raae ho«se was erected ia 
1$:!^ ajid his elegaat «ev bar* was bvih is 18^1. 
Besides raisiBS: the vcreftls. he devotes ecMsiderafale 
tiae to stock-ru<i«$ a»d has soae fae ^aiiiH oa 
his pbe«. aaoMg vhich is a swd bived of tiot- 
tiBg hi-«ses. 

The Uaited Brethrea Chareh fads ia Xr. Bo«-- 
Maa aa adiTe aad ialaeetial Meaaber. aad the 
towaship ia which he nesades jasdj leaards hiw *s 
one cf its bet citizeas. He is a trae-blae Repab- 
licaa ia poGtics aad ia CaTorof all eferalii^ aes- 
nres ia his coauiaaitT. Bv clos« applieatioa U> 
the daliK' vhieh lie before his. he taals aao^ 
the be<i asricaltarists ia this seeti«a.aad fe ptoad 
<^ the fact that his pc^essioas are Aeresalt of hte 
ova perssiteat iadestiT aad ^ood aaa^eaMaC 



EV. aOHN a. LEBERMAN, the p^t« «f 
ibe Refiwted Church ttf Loatsrilkv ilhio, 
X I like aaa V of the e^Dcelleat citiaeas of the 
coaatT. w$ bMa ia IVaasvlTaaia. Us 
birth oev-wnrinf ia Uaioa Towa^ip. Lefaaaoa 
CouatT. Xoveailwr *?, IS4^ His pareai^ Jbvob 
1_ aad Harriet (F*ke» L*t»eraK«a. were aatives r*- 
s{wvtiT«lr of Bavaria. Cncraaav. aad Leinaoa 
Couaty- PijL The father's birth ocewved ia ISIS, 
aad whea about etshteea xyars of ase he <9uae to 



tea to aalx his fortaae. He weaied ia leh- 
Coaatr. Bl. aad there Met aad 
IGss Fake. He ealaifeed ia tima tile 
bat la»r aoved to MeadTiUe. Crawford Coaatr. 
F^ whei« he Made his hose for afeoat thirtr-twv. 
T«ai^ i<r aatil his death, which ott.am d De BMabc r 
±4. 1^1. He was iaWned at GwitadiV Cfetery 
atM<adTille.F^ ffis wite. who died ia l)§i»l. wk 
of Geraaa pareatat9<r. «.tf the eight ehildrea bora 
to this aaioau six are stili livii^ The eldest child. 
David ru. was ai^> a Miaistar hi the B Lfwe d 
C^arch aad «ed at lieadviDe. ¥^ (where he had 
beiea pastor of the chareh fw taia tyyearsVoa the 
31st of De ctM be j i . 1^1. He left twoscMS. Edward 
Ou a fAiysieiaa of Akroa. (Ihia. aad Hearv. of :^ 
lioais. Mo. The secoad child bcna to Mr. aad 
Mr». Leiwraaaa becaae Mrs. Leah LoaaadL h^ three 
da^hfeeis. aad rcsider ia Fhilade^AHa. Laither 
A.r(5idcsiaMeadvine.FB-aBdfe ia theiasacaaee 
baaacs^ He is Ma iiie d aad his tw« daajhitr- 
aad two soas. Joha JL. oar s«h}ect. lOMf aext. 
Mrs. Eaan Kiider resides oa a farm aear Mead- 
vaicRn-aadE^theaKWhcrcf iwchilAea. Mr& 
Lanada EUswx^ath died aear MeadviUe. Fa., aad 
left three daa^ters. Heatx. who is a srocer ia 
MeadviUe. has three ehildrea: aad 3frs. EUca 
Beisi^er Makes her hoHK ia Fnricfia. Vcaa^o 
Coaaty. IV. aad has oae child. 

Rev. Jkiha JL LeIwtMaa Made his hoMe ia Vek^- 
aaoa Oi>aaiy. 1^.. aatil elevea reus of a^ aad 
secatrd extra edacatioaal advaaotgics. After leav- 
ii^ the pablie aad H^ Schoote. be be^aa the 
stady of iaa^aa^es. Latia. l^reek aad Genaaa. 
whea sncteea years of a^. aad stal lafeer deifced 
ia a swte ia MeadviBe. Afterward he wae; ia the 
nUroad ottee at Mcadvilleaad reMaiaed thcvea 
y«ar. Frvaa aa early a^e. he had Maaifested a 
desire for the Miaistir. becuMf a chuch Mt M ber 
at the ae^e of tlurtrea aad ahu a jgv eat ee a yvars of 
a^ feMk a coarse ia WesaaorelHad CoUe^. ia 
We^Morelaad Coaaty. F^ where he wMiiafd 
oae year. After this, he weat w Tifia. OImlv 
catered the Ftt:hM»a efatss of the Ifci d eKwr g Tai- 
vecsaty. at which he was «radaated m 1^72. »id 
thea took the thcotogical c««rse, ja w h iag ia l^T^Si. 
Afterward he accepted a call as pasMr ia the Re- 
fonaed Chareh at Ijiwisville. Ohi«. aad he>« he 



i."^ 4L1CT' ffiijiS£i^lHl£al ^tatr rwr- 



:iti STEEUiSU" 



"p- ta? n-u:?- rf rrs^ -f»i4irwc.^-p" 



-^rar:*- ^iir 




^■^r? lj*"'4li-i.'-t.lM_._ 



J'TT •ITS 



UL all 



ii-r— li- 



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aa£ 



"viifl^ ifeuu 



■an Ti 
3i _ 






::^:^i.'jr-z az;i 






In, 



flBf- :t»?^ 



258 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



on landing at New York City, tliey turned their 
faces in tlie direction of Canton, Oliio, and after 
reacliing this place at once embarked in tlie hard- 
ware business, which proved a success financially. 
The father afterward sold his goods to remove to the 
city of New York, where he became a successful 
hardware merchant and resided until his death, 
which occurred in 1873. After the estate had been 
settled, the widow, with her children, returned to 
Canton, in 1878, and here their home has since 
continued to be. 

Conrad Schweitzer was the third of four chil- 
dren, the eldest son born to his parents, and his 
early days were spent in Canton and New York 
City, in the public schools of which places he ac- 
quired sufficient education to fit him for a prac- 
tical business life. This, however, did not satisfy 
his thirst for knowledge, and he later entered 
Park Institute on Long Island, where he pursued 
his studies for two j-ears. At the end of this time, 
he returned to New York and entered the office of 
his father, whose able assistant he continued to be 
until death intervened and he was left fatherless. 
After settling up the estate, he returned to Canton 
in 1878, soon after which he entered the office of C. 
Aultman it Company, and remained with this com- 
pany for eight years. He next became Treasurer of 
the Gibbs, Ball Plow Company, holding his connec- 
tion with this house for two years; later, he became 
connected with the Democrat Publishing Com- 
pany, was for a time editor and business manager 
of the News-Denwa-at and Stark County Democrat, 
and is now one of the leading stockholders in the 
company. In connection with others, he helped to 
organize the People's Savings Bank, and was made 
its Secretary and Treasurer. He is recognized as 
one of the reputable business men of the city, and 
while he has been eminently successful from a 
personal standpoint, his views are broad, so broad 
that every just and commendable enterprise hav- 
ing in view the material and moral interests of 
the city and State meets with all the encourage- 
ment, financial and otherwise, it is in his power to 
grant. 

Mr. Schweitzer was one of the Directors of the 
City Water Works, and a member of the Board of 
Equalization, is one of the Citj- Park Commission- 



ers, and was Chairman of the Democratic County 
Committee for two years. In 1886, his marriage to 
Helen Cook, a daughter of George Cook, a pioneer 
manufacturer of, this place, who was for many 
years connected with C. .\ultmin ife Company, was 
celebrated. To them three interesting children have 
been born. Tiiey have a handsome residence sur- 
rounded by Iieautiful grounds at No. .^7 Mvers 
Avenue. 



-=^^>^^<^ 



\l? EWIS J. WISE. Time has dealt kindly 
ll (?S'i with this gentleman and his wife and ena- 
J* —^^ bled them to lay aside the labors thej' bore 
in former 3'ears, and settle down to the enjoj'- 
ment of the physical comfort and social pleasures 
their adequate means and good tastes make possi- 
ble and agreeable. After years of industrious and 
well-directed efforts, they are now living in retire- 
ment on a jiortion of tlieir old farm in Canton 
Township. They have an extended acquaintance, 
and have long been known as among the best rep- 
resentatives of the agricultural class in the town- 
ship. The estate, which is a very valuable one, is 
under the direct supervision of their son, Newton 
E., who is in every way capable of its manage- 
ment. 

Our subject, who is one of the oldest and 
wealthiest residents of Stark County, is a native 
of this county, liaving been born here March 26, 
1827, and is the son of Adam AVise, who was born 
in Washington County, Pa. Tlie grandfather of 
our subject, who was a farmer in tlie above-named 
State, lived there, and died at a good old age. 
Adam Wise, who also followed .agricultural pur- 
suits, came to this State about 180(1, and with his 
family located in the northeastern part of Plain 
Township, this county. Tliere he purchased a 
quarter-section of land, which he develo|)ed, and 
later erected a gristmill on Nimishillen Creek, 
and was one of the first to englige in that line of 
work in the county. He was very successful in 
business affairs and was also the owner of a card- 




O!^ jif , ,r, ,ff n fl liii i miiii iii j[i, |i nT i; 






^^irxxc=»wt: " 'irr^' ,. ' ir . 



RE5IDE:NCE&6REENH0USES OF C.W. FAUST, SEC.n^CAt^lTOIvJ Ti^, STARK CO., 0. 










Sir 



^ 




<JiS^'' 






RES. OF L.J. WISE, SEC. ir., CANTON TP., STARK CO.,0. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



261 



ing factory and a sawmill. In connection with 
these varied interests, lie conducted a dry-goods 
store for many years. He was one of those whose 
financial success makes them but tiie more anxious 
to aid in public enterprises, and whose gratitude 
for their personal success is shown in their interest 
in the general welfare. As a man of honor, he 
enjoyed the confidence of the community in a high 
degree. He was strictly a man of business, and 
died at his home in Canton, where he was living 
retired from active life, at the age of sixty-six 
years. In his successful career as a business man, 
lie showed himself to be energetic, industrious, 
shrewd and far-seeing, using his influence not only 
to advance his material prosperity, but to elevate 
the social and moral status of his communit}'. 

The lady whom Adam Wise married was ]Miss 
Piuebe Stockton, a native of Penns3ivaiiia. By 
their union were liorn nine children: Aaron S., 
Hiram R., Rebecca, Mary A., Lewis .T., Elizabeth 
A., Hannah J., Loretta 8. and Ph(ebe. The mother, 
who was one of the members of tiie Presbyterian 
Church, died in her fift^'-fiftli year. The fatiier 
of our subject was prominently connected with the 
Baptist Church in religious affairs, and, politically, 
cast his vote with the Republican party. 

Our subject received his education in the dis- 
trict schools kept in the old log schooliiouse, and 
it has been his constant aim since arrivingat years 
of discretion to keep u|) with tlie times in his 
knowledge of current events and topics of general 
interest. Being reared to farm pursuits, when 
read}' to start out in life on his own account, 
young Wise purchased his present farm, on which 
he has made all the substantial improvements. 

In 1849, he of whom we write and Miss Susan 
Gans were united in marriage. The lad}-, who was 
a native of this county, bore her husband tiiree 
children, of whom Oliver and Susan are still 
living, and died in 18.53. The lady whom Mr. 
Wise chose as his second wife was Miss Susan 
Fisher, their marriage lieing celebrated in 1858. 
To them was granted a family of eight children, 
of whom the following seven are living: Ellen, 
William, Newton, Edwin, Emma, Bertha and Ho- 
mer. 

Our subject was actively engaged in farming 



until 1888, when through strict attention to busi- 
ness and by hard and unremitting labor, he ac- 
quired a handsome fortune, and is now living re- 
tired in the handsome frame residence which lie 
erected on a corner of his farm in 1890. His 
estate is one of the most desirable in point of im- 
provement and cultivation to be found in this 
portion of the State, and is devoted to raising 
grain and dairying. As before stated, it is under 
the direct management of one of his sons, who has 
been trained by his worthy father to follow in his 
footsteps, and is now one of the promising and 
enterprising young men of the county, who is 
bound to make his mark in the world. 

Mr. and Mrs. Wise are devoted members of 
the Baptist Church, with which denomination they 
have been connected for many years. Originally 
a Republican in politics, our subject feels that he 
has had sufficient cause to change his sentiments and 
is now a stanch worker in the ranks of the Prohibi- 
tion part}'. In the midst of his various business 
engagements he has found time to take the part 
usual to a public-spirited citizen in enterprises that 
work for the general good. He has served for 
many years as a member of the School Board, and 
in his younger days took a great interest in local 
.affairs. His farm comprises one hundred and 
sixty-six acres, in addition to which he has platted 
fifty-four lots in the city of Canton. He keei)s 
on his place from twenty-five to thirty milch covvs, 
from which branch of industry is reaped a hand- 
some profit. His superior financial ability has- 
given him a position among the most substantial 
men of the county and his straiglitforwar.1 con- 
duct has won the esteem and confidence of all. 



ORNELirS W. FAUST. During the early 
days of the settlement of the United States, 
but little attention was devoted to the cul- 
tivation of the beautiful in nature and art. Our 
sturdy forefathers were principally engaged in 
combats with sav.agc foes and the no less savage 



262 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



beasts of the forest, and amid countless obstacles, 
broke the virgin soil, planted the first seed and 
gathered the first crops into their small granaries. 
With the passing years came the introduction of 
an increasing amount of that which makes life a 
pleasure, and in no direction is this more noticea- 
ble than in the cultivation of fruits and flowers. 

Probably the most extensive florist and plant 
grower in Eastern Ohio is the gentleman whose 
name introduces this sketch, and whose green- 
houses are located on the Georgetown Road, one- 
half mile east of Canton. Here may be found 
every variety of cut flowers, as well as vegetables 
and all kinds of fruits. The passing stranger in- 
variablv pauses to notice and admire the place, and 
a single glance convinces him that the proprietor 
is a man of thrift and refined tastes. 

Mr. Faust was born upon the homestead which 
lie now occupies, February 10. 1854, and is the 
son of Cornelius and Martha E. (Stock) Faust, na- 
tives, respectively, of Oiiio and Pennsylvania. 
The grandfather of our subject, Benjamin Faust, 
was born in the Keystone State and was a pioneer 
of Stark Countj', where he died on his farm near 
Canton. He was the founder of the German Re- 
formed Church at Canton, and the first minister 
of that denomination in the place. He was a man 
of great industry and at his death left a comfort- 
able property, entirely free from encumbrance. 

The eldest son of Benjamin Faust was Cornelius, 
who was reared to manhood in Stark County. A 
tiller of the soil from his boyhood, he has al- 
ways applied himself diligently to his farming 
pursuits, and has preferred the seclusion of his 
home to the excitement of political life, hence has 
never aspired to official lienors. Of his seven chil- 
dren, our subject is the eldest surviving son. His 
youth was passed in a comparatively uneventful 
manner on his father's farm, and while attending 
school he experimented in his present business. 
He is one of the pioneer growers in small fruits in 
this section of country, and has been in the bus- 
iness for twenty -six years. 

During the last twelve 3ears, Mr. Faust has ex- 
pended about 18,000 in improvements, and his 
place of business is modern and well equipped. 
The gardens include twentj' acres of land, and an in- 



dependent water system is practiced, and controlled 
by a wind-mill. Henceforth Mr. Faust's entire 
attention will be given to the cultivation of flow- 
ers, and landscape gardening in all its phases. A 
man of energy, ambition aud perseverance, it is not 
strange that IMr. Faust has met with success in his 
undertakings and has made of his business a science. 
Aside from his private affairs, he maintains a deep 
interest in the welfare of Canton, and is ready to 
promote its interests by an}' means in his power. 
He is a stanch Republican and a member of the 
Republican Executive Committee. In his social 
connections, he is identified with the Order of 
American Mechanics. His pleasant home is pre- 
sided over b}' his wife, formerl}- Henrietta Niesz, 
daughter of William Niesz. The one sorrow of 
their otherwise ha])p_v wedded life was the death 
of their only son, William, who passed away at 
the age of seven months and two days. 



W^EY. CHRISTIAN CHRISTIANSEN, pastor 
r*v *^^ ^^" John's Evangelical Church. Massillon, 
^ \V Ohio, is another of the many prominent 
citizens of the county who claim Germany 
as their native country, his birth occurring near 
Bredtstedt, Schleswig-Holstein, on the 1st of Jan- 
uary, 1862. His father, Peter Christiansen, and 
his grandfather, Peter Christiansen, Sr., were also 
natives of the same vicinity. The latter was at 
one time a successful farmer, but met with re- 
verses, so that his son Peter at an early age was 
obliged to work hard to assist the famil3\ Peter 
Christiansen, .Jr., was married in his native coun- 
try to Miss Anna M. Kruse, also a native of Ger- 
many, and after the birth of their five children, or 
in 1869, he and family- crossed the ocean to 
America. This was early in the spring, and on the 
2d of February of that year, they came to Genoa, 
Ottawa Count}-, Ohio, where they remained the 
balance of the winter. From there they removed 
to Wood County, where Mr. Christiansen was em- 
ployed as a lumberman. In addition he also 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



263 



carried on farming, and later located on twenty 
acres of land, wliere lie made his home until he re- 
sided with our subject. He is still living and is 
seventy-one years «f age. His wife was over sev- 
enty years of age at the time of her death. Five 
children were born to this worthy couple, four of 
whom reached mature years, and three are now 
living, as follows: Mathias J., who resides in Oak 
Harbor, Ohio, engaged in farming; Henry, engaged 
in farming in Wood County; Matilda, who died 
when seven years of age; John F., who died when 
twenty-three years of age; and our subject. 

The original of this notice remained in his 
native country until seven years of age, and from 
the age of five until then he attended the schools 
there. After reaching this cnmtry, he attended 
the English schools, off and on, until nine years of 
age, when he was set to work. Although he 
worked hard during the day time, the evening 
generality found him poring over his lessons, 
arithmetic especially. When fourteen years of 
age, he attended the public .schools during the 
winter for a short time, and the fourth winter was 
allowed to attend Howling Green High School, 
where he remained until the fall of 1881. He then 
entered the college at Elmhurst, 111., in the Sopho- 
more class, and was graduated at that institution in 
1884. A desire to enter the ministry then took pos- 
session of him, and he attended the German Evan- 
gelical Theological Seminary, near St. Louis Mo., 
and was graduated in 1887. He was ordained the 
same year at F>lyria, Ohio, and in 1887 was called 
to Loudonville, Ohio, where he labored for three 
years and eight months. 

On the 14tli of April, 18;U, he came to Massillon 
as pastor of St. John's, the oldest German society 
here, having been established for over fifty years, 
ami is now conducting a successful pastorate 
ill tliih^ town. Personall3% Mr. Christiansen has 
a frank, pleasing countenance, and a personal 
magnetism that draws his congregation to him. 
His delivery is careful and finished, and there 
is a real depth of thought in the sermons which 
he preaches. Mr. Christiansen was married in 
Monroe County, Ohio, at Switzer, on the 26th of 
March, 1890, to Miss Charlotte Zesiger, a native of 
that place, where she was reared and educated. 



She is a lady possessed of more than the average 
intelligence, and excelled in music and [lenmanship, 
and was an expert dress-maker. One child has 
blessed this union, Martha E. Since his residence 
in Massillon, Mr. Christiansen has reorganized the 
Ladies' Societ}' and also started a Young People's 
Society. He also started English services, i)reacli- 
ing in both (ierman and English, and started an 
English department in tiie Sunday-school. In pol- 
itics, he is a Democrat. While at college, he was 
President of the Literary Society for one year and 
helped to organize it. 



-^ 



\T ACOB A. MEESE is a farmer whose tract 
of land is located on section .34 and com- 
|)rises eighty acres, and although this farm 
' is small, it is well tilled and yields a good 
annual income. Mr. Meese was born in Washing- 
ton Township, Stark County, on the 23d of July, 
183.5, to Daniel and Sarah (Aultman) Meese, the 
former of whom was born and reared in Columlii- 
ana County, was married in Canton, and located 
in Wasiiiugton Township, of this county, where 
he became the owner of a fertile farm, on which he 
lived for a number of years. His father. Christian 
Meese, was a native of Peniis3'lvania, but came to 
Ohio, where lie carried on farming, to which occu- 
pation he reared his sons. After residing for 
about twenty years in Nimishillen Township, Daniel 
Meese removed to Louisville, where he was called 
from life. He is buried in the Salem Cemetery, in 
AVashington Township, where his wife is also 
sleeping her last sleep, her death having occurred 
in 1865. 

Jacob A. Meese was the second of nine children 
born to his parents, six of whom grew to maturity, 
and four of whom are living. Two reside in Cold- 
water, Mich., and two in Stark County, Ohio. Mr. 
Meese's father was a self-made man, but received 
very meagre educational advantages in his youth, 
but he improved himself in later years to a great 
extent by self-application. Although a Democrat 



2G4 



PORTRAIT A>;D biographical RECORD. 



in early life, he afterward became a Republican, 
and took'an "active interest in politics, but was in 
no sense of the word an office-seeker, although lie 
held a number of minor township offices. He was 
an earnest Christian, and w.is a member in good 
standing of the Evangelical Ciiureb. 

While under the parental roof, .lacob A. Meese 
was drilled well in the duties pertaining to farm- 
ing, nor was his education neglected, for he was 
given the advantages of the common schools, and, 
unlike many boys, improved his time while tiicre. 
lie began to do for himself at the age of twenty- 
f<^ur yeare, having given his father the benefit of 
his services until that time, and on the '2'2d of July, 
1858, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza J. 
Hawkins, of Washington Township, but who first 
saw the light of day in Columbiana County, March 
27, 1841, of which section her father, William 
Hawkins, was also a native, although her mother, 
Eliza Hawkins, was born in Penns^-lvania. The 
latter died in April, 1841, but her husband still 
survives her and is a resident of Columbiana 
County. Mrs. Meese was the youngest of their 
three children, and is the only one now living. 

After his marriage, Mr. Meese was given a tract 
of land by his father, comprising fifty-two acres 
in Washington Township, and on this farm he tilled 
the soil until 1872, when he made an additional 
purchase of twenty arves, all of which he sold at a 
later period to purchase his father's farm of one 
hundred acres. He now has a fine farm of one 
hundred and sixty-two acres, which is well im- 
l)roved by excellent farm buildings anc" many 
fruit and ornamental trees. He has tiled his farm 
and it is now considered one of the most beautiful 
and valuable farms in his section of Stark County. 
Everything about his place is in perfect harmony, 
and each nook and cranny of fields, fences and 
buildings is well-kept, neat and attractive, speak- 
ing well for tlie good judgment of the owner, as 
well as for his artistic taste. 

.Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Meese: AValter, born in Washington Township 
March 29, 1860. was married October 20, 1881, to 
Miss .lulia Vernier, of Nimishillen Township, by 
whom he has one child, Harvey, born in February, 
1884; .Sarah, born in W.ashington Township, Octo- 



ber 31, 1861, was married to Elmer Frederick, 

September 15, 1881, and has three children. Myrtle, 
Harry and Clarence; Nora, born May 24, 1864, 
was married to .lolin Shaffer, February 8, 1883, and 
has one child, Emmet, born in July, 1884; Oliver 
born September .'50, 1866, died September 7, 1879; 
Catherine, born May 22, 1870, married Peter A- 
Chenot, December 25, 1888, and is the mother of 
one child, Pearl, born July 22, 1891; John, born 
November 16, 1872, and William R.. born August 
18, 1879, who are now at home. 

Mr. Meese is a Republican of the stanchest kind, 
and his first vote was cast for John C. Fremont, 
the "Pathfinder." He has never been an office- 
seeker, and much prefers the quiet life of a farmer 
to the contention and bustle of political life. He 
quietlj' "pursues the even tenor of his way," and 
this is indicated by the admirable condition in 
which his farm is at all times kept. He and his 
amiable wife are members of the Evangelical 
Church at Good Hope, in which he has been Class- 
leader and exhorter. 

The father of our subject was engaged in making 
spinning-wheels, and the mother operated one for 
a few years. 



^!#^M-$l"I^|i^ 



■JOSEPH K. Rl'SSELL, Vice-president and 
Superintendent of the lumber department 
of Russell & Co., of Jlassillon, was born at 
Alstead, Cheshire County, N. H., June 26, 
1823. The famil}' of which he is a member is of 
Scotch-English descent, and was represented in 
America at an early day. The grandfather of 
our subject, likewise known as Joseph, was born 
January 5, 1745, in AVeston, Mass., and was a 
merchant, hotel-keeper and farmer at Weston, 
fourteen miles from Boston. Late in life, he re- 
moved to New Hampshire, where he died at an 
advanced age. 

The father of our subject, Cyrus Russell, was 
born in Weston, Middlesex County, Mass.. Decem- 
ber 17, 1784, whence in 1820 he removed to New 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFX'ORD. 



265 



Hampshire and purchased a farm in Alstead, 
Cheshire County. This he improved and operated 
until 1829, when he removed to Sutton, Caledonia 
County, Vt. He continued farming on that place 
until he retired from active labor, and went to 
live with a daughter at Thompson, Conn., where 
he died at the age of eighty-eight years. In poli- 
tics, he was first a Whig, and later a Republican, 
and while a resident of Massachusetts served as a 
soldier in the War of 1812. 

The mother of our subject was Louisa, daughter 
of Isaac Stratton, an agriculturist of Lincoln, 
Mass., where she was born. Her death occurred at 
the age of eighty-four. The family consisted of 
eight sons and three daughters, and at this writ- 
ing (1892), six survive. Joseph K., the seventh 
in order of birth, was a lad of six years when he 
accompanied his parents to Vermont, the journey- 
being made with team and wagon. The family set- 
tled in a primitive log cabin. The lad was early 
set to work, and was accustomed to swing the 
sc3'the and sickle in the harvest fields, and bind 
the crops, little thinking that he would some fu- 
ture day be the manufacturer of reapers, etc., to 
save that labor. During two months of each year, 
he was allowed to attend the district school, held 
in log houses furnished with slab benches for 
seats. 

In 1812, Mr. Russell came to Massillon, where 
he was apprenticed to C. M. Russell & Co. The 
firm had only recently organized as contractors, 
builders and manufacturers, and with them he 
remained for three years, when, on account of 
ill-health, he returned to his native county. At 
Ilarrisville, that county, he entered his father- 
in-law's woolen mills, learning the trade step by 
step, until he became overseer of the weaving de- 
partment, and while there, worked on one of the 
first power-looms ever operated in New England. 

Returning to ISIassillon in 1863, Mr. Russell 
inirchased an interest in the N. S. & C. Russell 
Manufacturing Works, on January 1 of the follow- 
ing year, at which time the firm changed to Rus- 
sell (k Co. Tills prominent manufactory' was estab- 
lished January 1, 1842, and is, therefore, the oldest 
agricultural implement house in Stark Count3'. 
At the date above mejilioned, Charles M., Na- 



huni S. and Clement Russell, three brothers, 
formed a partnership under the firm name of C. 
M. Rus.sell it Co. The capital was limited, but 
their fund of perseverance and good judgment 
was unlimited, hence success was won. C. 1\I. 
Russell had examined the Pitt's Thresher, of Buffalo, 
and believing he could improve upon it, set about 
the task, and was so successful in his endeavor liiat 
his improved machine vaiKjuished the original at 
the Ohio State Fair in 184;"). Thus encouraged, 
tiie new firm pushed ahead with fair progress, and 
continued to improve their" Massillon Thresher," 
until it distanced all its comi)etitors. 

The firm was i)rominent in tiie building of the 
Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne it Chicago Railroad in 1851, 
as they needed an outlet witii quick and cheap 
freight for their products. C. M. Russell was one 
of the first Directors, and served in that capacity 
until his death in 1860. After his decease, the style 
of the firm changed to N. S. it C. Russell, and in 
1864, Joseph K., Thomas II., and George L., 
brothers, purchased interests, and the firm was then 
changed to Russell & Co., which is the present 
title. In 1865, W. K. Miller and Thomas H. Will- 
iams were admitted to the firm, the former gentle- 
man being the patentee of the '■ Peerless" mower 
and reaper, which were manufactured by his firm 
until 1871, when it was sold to C. Russell it Co., 
of Canton, and its production transferred to that 
city. 

During 1868, Mr. Willianis retired from the 
company, and tiiree years afterward, Allen A. 
Russell, the younger brother, was added to the 
firm, also A. R. Rawson, a nephew. Mr. Rawson 
died in 1875, and his interest reverted to J. W. 
McClymonds. January I, 1878, Clement Russell, 
one of the founders, withdrew from the firm, after 
thirty-six years of active connection therewith. 
Prior to 1865, the shops were located on Erie 
Street, between Tremont and South, but the bus- 
iness having outgrown the accommodations, the 
firm purchased twenty acres south of the railroad, 
and erected the main structures of the present 
substantial plant. 

May 17, 1878, fii-e destroyed all the iion-work- 
ing machinery. The entire south wing and one- 
half of the Erie Street front were in ruins, while the 



266 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



entire stock of patterns, valued at $75,000, and as 
much more valuable machinery, were completely 
destroyed. The amount of insurance realized was 
*50,000. The firm at once' rebuilt and now have 
commodious quarters for their constantly increas- 
ing business. In tlie fall of 1878, Russell it Co. 
were incorporated under the State laws, with a 
capital stock of 81,000,000. 

The firm has branch ortices at :Mihvaiikee. Coun- 
cil Bluffs, St. Paul, Dallas, Atlanta, Indianapolis, 
Portland, Lexington, and other places. The lead- 
ing product was formerly the " Massillon 
Thresher." The '• New Massillon Thresher" is 
to-day the most successful thresher in America, its 
success having been beyond precedent. Its supe- 
riority lies not only^in its adaptability to all kinds 
of <^rain and seed, but in the quality and quan- 
tity of work performed. The firm also make a 
specialty of their portable farm engine, with trac- 
tion attachment. They were the first of the large 
manufacturers to introduce steam threshing, an in- 
dication of the enterprising and progressive spirit 
of this establishment. Their engines are built of 
the best material and have proved a success. 

The manufactures of Russell & Co. find a ready 
market all over the United States, and have been 
introduced into Germany. Russia, South America, 
Australia, New Zealand, and other foreign coun- 
tries. The oHicers of the company are: J. W. 
McClymonds, President and Treasurer; .Joseph K. 
Russell, Vice-president and Superintendent of the 
Lumber Department; C. M. Russell, Secretary. 
Under the supervision of the heads of the various 
departments, a force numbering seyen hundred in 
the busy season is employed. In addition to 
what has been above mentioned, the firm makes a 
specialty of automatic engines of the finest 
grade, and also runs the electric light plant. 

In 1883, Mr. Russell built his beautiful residence 
on the corner of Main and Third Streets, where 
lie still resides. His first marriage took place in 
Harrisville. N. IL, and united him with Lucretia 
J., daughter of Milan Harris, one of the pioneer 
woolen manufacturers of New England. They 
became the parents of fiye children, namely: Vi- 
net S.; Charles M., .Secretary of Russell tV Co.; 
Mary K., Louisa J., and Jessie L., who are at 



home. Mr. Russell was a second time married, in 
1876, this time to Mrs. Lydia H. Harris, who was 
born in Nelson, N. H.. the daughter of Oliver 
Heald. She died in February, 1888. In December, 
1890. he was married to Mrs. Harriet AV. Ballard, 
daughter of Dr. I'erkins Wallace, of Canton, Ohio. 



■ifj ACOB B. WKNDLING, formeily one of the 
enterprising farmers of Stark County, had a 
pleasantly located f.arm on section 13, Tus- 
carawas Township. Beginning with a small 
amount of land, by a steady and honorable course 
in life, he came into the possession of a good estate^ 
comprising one hundred and sevent3--nine acres of 
land. The situation of this tract was not the onl\- 
reason for its value, but the manner in which it 
was improved and the use to which it was jiut 
added greatly to its worth. 

Our subject was the son of Adam and Christina 
(Held) Wendling, and was born in this county, 
December 24, 1833. His parents, who were natives 
of Germany, emigrated to the New World in 1833, 
and coming immediately to this county were 
classed among iU well-to-do citizens and old 
settlers. Jacob B. of this sketch obtained his first 
schooling in his native township, and to the in- 
struction there received he added a fund of infor- 
mation acquired by reading and contact with man- 
kind. When old enough to start out in life on 
his own responsibility, he learned the trade of a 
saddler and harness-maker, and when mastering 
that line of work went into business for himself at 
Massillon, where he was successfully engaged until 
1864. At the end of that time, he disposed of his 
interests in that city and located upon a farm. 

The lady who presides with ability over the late 
home of our subject became his wife February 3, 
1863, prior to which time she was known as Miss 
Margaret Brechbill. She was born in Westmore- 
land County. Pa., April 10, 1827, and is the 
daughter of John and Nancy (Brinker) Brechbill, 
who were also boin in the Keystone State. She 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



267 



made her advent into this countj' in company 
with her brother Jacob, and here met and married 
our subject. By tlieir union were born three 
children: Nancy J., Mrs. S. V. Roush; Mary C. jind 
Jacob J. In his political preferences, Mr. AVendling 
was a Republican, and a member in good standing 
of the Lutheran Church, which he served as Elder 
for many years. 

Socially, he of whom we write was identified 
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and 
the Knights of Pythias. His death occurred De- 
cember 24, 1887, and in him the county lost one 
of her progressive and enterprising citizens. He 
w.as a thrifty and wide-awake agriculturist, and had 
a good knowledge of liis calling, which placed him 
among the well-to-do citizens of his native town- 
ship, whose interests he materially advanced while 
prosecuting his vocation. 



S^+^l 



^OHN B. SHILLING. The most conspicuous 
figure in the southwestern part of Stark 
County is the above-named gentleman, 
_^ who is always to bo found giving his coun- 
tenance and support to that which pertains to the 
improvement of this section and the advancement 
of its people. So straightforward has been liis 
life, so honorable liis dealings with all, and so 
marked his interest in, and energetic his work for, 
the best that life affords, that even his enemies 
have nothing to say against him. Besides tilling 
the soil, he is engaged in stock-raising, and keeps 
on his place animals of the best breeds. 

A native of this county, our subject was born, 
Januaiy 23, 1837, to John and Barbara (Bugh- 
man) Shilling, the father being a native of Penn- 
sylvania and of Dutch descent, while the mother, 
who also was born in the Keystone State, is of 
German ancestry. John Shilling, tlie father of 
our subject, came with his family in 1819 to this 
county, and took up his abode in a log cabin on 
an uncultivated tract of land in Tuscarawas 
Township. He passed through all the liarilships to 



which early settlers were subjected, and there con- 
tinued his labors with a satisfactory degree of suc- 
cess until his decease, September 3, 1876. He kejit 
himself well informed regarding local affairs, and 
showed a genuine interest in the progress of the 
section, and was likewise well posted on topics of 
current events. 

The parental family, which included seven chil- 
dren, now numbers only three, who are named re- 
spectively-: Abraham; Eliza, Mrs. Benjamin Krider; 
and John B. Our subject received a limited ed- 
ucation in the district schools, and has indeed 
been the architect of his own fortunes, and the 
comforts which he now enjo3's and the advan- 
tages he has been able to bestow upon his chil- 
dren have been gained by hard work and good 
management. He has always followed farming- 
pursuits, and at the i)resent time has one of the 
best farms in the township. In whatever walk in 
life he is found, he shows the qualities of true 
manhood, and has done what he could to elevate 
the status of the community, mentally, morally 
and spirituall}-. 

The lady to whom Mr. Shilling was married 
November 13, 1862, was Miss Melissa, daughter of 
Joseph Hassler, and to them has been born a 
family of nine children, viz: Charles, Wilbert C, 
William C, Arthur D., Edith, Daisy, Albert, Glen- 
dora and Anna M. He of whom we write owns 
eighty acres of land, which his energy has placed 
under excellent cultivation and from which he 
reaps a handsome income. In exercising the right 
of suffrage, he stanchly supports the candidates of 
the Democratic party, as did also his father before 
him. He has served as School Director of his dis- 
trict, has been Constable and has lield the oHice of 
Trustee of Tuscarawas Township for two years. 
His good wife, with whom he has lived for thirty 
years, is a member of the Reformed Church, and is 
highly esteemed for her personal character. 

Joseph Hassler, tlie father of Mrs. Shilling, was 
l)Oi-n July 16, 1816. in Franklin County, Pa., and 
was the son of Joseph and Mary (Stump) Hassler. 
In 1839, he emigrated from his native State to 
Ohio, making the trip overland on liorseback in 
seven days. He was married on the 25th of April 
of that year to Miss Charlotte Poorman, who was 



268 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



also a native of Franklin County, Pa., her natal 
clay being May 12, 1821. She was tli<^ daughter 
of Peter and Mary (Richard) Poorman, and was 
brouglit b}' her parents, wlieu about six years of 
age, to this conn tr\'. Her father located with the 
family in Tuscarawas Township, making their 
home for a number of years in a rude log cabin. 

The parental family- of Mrs. Shilling included 
twelve children, of whom eleven are living, 
namely: Mary, Mrs. Charles Tinkler; Mrs. Shill- 
ing; John; Hadessa, Airs. Dallas Oberlin; Luciiicla, 
the wife of William Lebers; Anson, who is pastor 
of a Presbyterian Church in New York; Allie, 
Mrs. Calvin McDowell; Ida, the wife of the Rev. 
Silas Mase; Lottie, Airs. Albert Oberlin; Emma, 
Mrs. Ira Oberlin; and Cora, Mrs. Harry Holliuger. 
Eliza is deceased. Mr. Hassler occupied a high 
position in local affairs, and served as School 
Director for some time. He was one of the pillars 
in the Reformed German Church, and departed 
this life March 24, 1875. He was one of the rep- 
resentative pioneers of the township, and as such 
enjo.yed the respect and confidence of many ac- 
quaintances, particularly of those who shared with 
him the primitive labors of years past. 






^^ EORGE S. BROWN. Among those who are 
II __. gaining a good maintenance by tilling the 
""^JJl soil in Stark County is Air. Brown, whose 
location is in Perry Township. He has there a 
farm of seventy-eight and one-half acres, upon 
which he has erected a good dwelling, bains and 
other structures, and, in fact, has made the jirop- 
erty what it is to-day, a comfortable home and the 
source of a good income. Mr. Brown is engaged 
in general farming, and in carrying on his work he 
displays good judgment, being sudiciently progres- 
sive to experiment somewhat in modern theories 
and to abandon the old rut when new ideas are 
shown to be advisable, but not allowing his desire 
for advancement to carry him aw.ay. 

Like many of the best residents of this section, 



our subject is a native of Stark County, having 
been born in Perry Township, Alay 27, 1840. His 
parents, Solomon and Elizabeth (Hines) Brown, 
were born in Pennsylvania, whence thej- emi- 
grated to this county in 182,5, making their first 
location in Canton Township. In the '3()s they 
made their advent into this township, and located 
on an unimproved tract of land on section 25. 
wliere they endured all the hardships incident to 
opening up a new countiy. The land which the 
father purchased did not have a furrow turned on 
it, but with characteristic energy he began clearing 
it, and his sturd}' blows soon felled the timber and 
let in tiie sunlight upon acre after acre, while after 
the harvest season rolled around, abundant crops 
were garnered as the result of his industry. 

The folluwing five children are the surviving 
members of the parental family of seven: Sarah, 
Alaria (Airs. A. Spohnhaer), Harriet, Rebecca, and 
George S. The father of these children died 
August SI, 1891, and in his death Stark County lost 
one of its resijected citizens. In his political rela- 
tions, Solomon Brown was in early life a Whig, but 
on the organization of the Republican party, joined 
its ranks. His good wife, who aided him greatly 
in attaining a good position among his fellow-men, 
preceded him to the better land, dying in 1865. 

George S. Brown of this sketch was reared amid 
the pioneer scenes of his native countj-, and has a 
clear recollection of the primitive modes of living 
and of the appearance of the wild, sparsely settled 
country before it had been developed to its present 
condition. He attended the pioneer schools of his 
township as soon as old enough to be of service, 
and aided his father in carrying on the home farm. 
His wife, prior to her marriage, was Aliss Elvira 
Spangler, and the date of their union was February 
25, 1862. Airs. Brown was the daughter of John 
and Sarah Spangler, of Alassillon, and of their 
union were born five children, viz.: Lincoln, Ed- 
win 11., Nettie, Henry J. and George. 

In his political relations. Air. Brown votes for 
Republican candidates; and for a number of years 
has served as a member of the School Board. With 
his wife, he is identified with the Alethodist Epis- 
copal Church at Canton. As a man of intelligence, 
he keeps hiinself informed regarding matters that 





'a^^iri^ 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



271 



pertain to the welfare of mankind, the growth of 
the Nation, and the interest of the community of 
which he forms a part. He is respected as a good 
citizen and neiglibor, an honorable man and a first- 
class farmer. 



'SI^.AVID LEVERS, Sif. Among the farmers 
of Stark County few have shown greater 
enterprise than David Levers, who is 
pleasantly located on section 11, Tusca- 
rawas Township. Here he has one hundred acres 
of land, all under cultivation and brought to its 
present condition by his own efforts, as he has not 
only made the more noticeable improvements, but 
did much of the clearing and fencing. He has a 
well-built residence, substantial barn and every 
necessary arrangement for cairying on his work in 
a first-class manner. The acquisition of this prop- 
erty is a standing monument to the industry and 
good judgment of a man who began his work in 
the world without means, and who has now accu- 
mulated a comfortable competence. 

Mr. Levers is a native of the Keystone State, 
having been born in Lancaster County, Januaiy 
29, 1817, to William and Elizabeth (Light) Levers, 
also natives of Pennsylvania. The paternal grand- 
father of our subject was a native of Switzerland. 
David of this sketch was taken by his parents on 
their removal to Franklin County, the same State, 
when four or five years old, and there he was edu- 
cated in the district schools near his home. Being 
trained to farm pursuits, he naturally chose farming 
for his vocation in life, and upon migrating to 
Stark County' m 1838 he worked for one season 
as a farm hand. 

September 28, 1838, Mr. Levers married Miss 
Mary Kaylor, who was born in Franklin County, 
Pa., and of the family of children born to them 
the following survive: Mary A., Mrs. O. B. Culler, 
whose sketch appears on another page in this book; 
Tean, Mrs. AVilliam Speck; William; Rosa B., the 
13 



wife of James Stansbury; Lodema, Mrs. Henry 
Shafer; David, John; Ida, the widow of Luther 
Brain; and Ada, Mrs. J. O. Oberlin. For some 
time after coming hither, our subject farmed as a 
renter, but being industrious and economical, he 
saved a sum sullicient to purchase his present prop- 
erty, upon which he has made improvements which 
place it in the front rank among the farms in the 
township. 

The lady who had been the companion and 
helpmate of Mr. Levers for many years, and to 
whom he owes in a large measure his present as- 
sured position in the community, departed this 
life at her home, October 10, 1885. She was a de- 
voted member of the Lutheran Church, and was 
active in all good works in her neighborhood. Our 
subject holds membership in the German Reformed 
Church. In politics, he is an earnest supporter of 
the Prohibition party, and in him the temperance 
cause finds a stanch advocate, one who has aided 
greatly in its furtherance in this section. He has 
served as Scliool Director and has done all in his 
power not only to promote the cause of education, 
but to advance other interests in his adopted 
township. 



JOHN W. CAMERON. There are few branches 
of industrial art toward the development of 
which such increasing efforts have been for 
,^_^^ several years ptist directed as that which 
has for its immediate object the artistic decora- 
tion of our homes and general surroundings. 
Among the most talented and deservedly success- 
ful of the many painters doing business in Massil- 
lon, a prominent position must be assigned to Mr. 
John W. Cameron, whose establishment is located 
at the corner of the alley between Main and 
Plum Streets. He was born in Massillon, August 
18, 1852, and here he has passed the principal part 
of his life. He was one of five children born to 
William and Caroline (Edwards) Cameron, both 
natives of the Buckeye State, the father being 



272 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



born in Massillon and the mother in Dalton. 
Grandfather Cameron was a native of Scotland, 
and at an early date came to Pennsylvania, where 
he was married. At a very early date, he removed 
to Ohio, settled in Massillon, and erected a house 
on the West Side. Here he passed the remainder 
of his daj-s engaged in his trade, that of a carpen- 
ter. Our subject's maternal grandparents were 
Eastern people. 

William Cameron, father of our subject, was a 
painter by trade and was foreman for Russell <fe 
Co. for many years, but afterward engaged in 
the business alone. During the late unpleasant- 
ness between the North and South, he first enlisted 
for three months, but the quota was filled before he 
could get out. In Maj^, 1864, he enlisted in the 
One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio National 
Guards, Companj- A, and served until mustered 
out in September, 1864, as Sergeant. After this, 
he returned and worked as foreman in Russell 
<fe Co.'s shop. On the 14th of April, 1865, 
while celebrating Lee's surrender and during a 
sham battle, he was accidentally killed. Mr. Cam- 
eron was onl}' thirty-eight or nine years of age at 
that time. His wife is still living and resides in 
the city of Massillon. All their children are liv- 
ing. 

The immediate subject of this sketch began 
working at the painter's trade at the age of ten 
years and followed this for two seasons, or until 
the death of his father, when he entered the em- 
ploy of Russell & Co. He was in the paint shop 
of this company, off and on, until 1873, and when 
older did the stripping of the machines. Later, 
he took charge of the stripping department at the 
Excelsior Agricultural Works, and was thus en- 
gaged for four years, or until the fall of 1877, 
when he was employed b_y Ogden in his furniture 
and undertaking rooms. In 1884, he commenced 
business here with Russell & Co., and in 1887, he 
branched out for himself as contracting sign and 
house painter. He makes a specialty of sign 
woik and is one of the finest house painters in the 
city. He employs from seven to eight men and 
does a very large contracting business. 

Mr. Cameron has a comfortable and pleasant 
home at No. 167 Clay Street, and this is presided 



over by his estimable wife, who was formerly Miss 
Isabelle Rinder, a native of Massillon, Ohio, whom 
he married in 1876. Seven children have blessed 
this union, as follows: William, Maude, Charles. 
Blain L. and Chester C; Harry and Sadie May, who 
are deceased. Mr. Cameron is a member of the 
City Council from the Third Ward,and has served as 
Chairman of the committees on Streets and Alleys, 
Paving and Grading, Printing, and the Fire De- 
partment, and was on the Sewer Committee and on 
the Prison and Police Committee. During 1886, he 
was Assessor of the Third AVard. Socially, he is a 
member of Perry Lodge No 87, K. of P.; Past 
Chancellor and Captain of the L^niform Rank of 
Knights of Pythias, and he is a member of Samuel 
Beatty Council No. 15, A. O. L^. W., and a mem- 
ber of Massillon Protective Home Circle No. 31. 
He is Past Commander of the Sons of Veterans, 
and was a charter member of the same. In poli- 
tics, he is a strong advocate of the platform of the 
Republican party, and has been a delegate to 
county conventions. He served eight 3'ears in the 
Hose Company of the Fire Department, and was a 
charter member of the Independent Hose Company, 
of which he was Assistant Foreman. 



[•{••{••{••J* 



^..f .{.^.k 



^.^•{.♦^^'•{••{••{••{•f 



W EVI L SMITH. The life of a farmer may 
I (?g) be devoid of stirring events, but it is not 
/I'— v^ the less a field in which to exercise good 
business ability, fine judgment and sterling traits 
of personal character. The man who can gain a 
large tract of land in the well-settled sections of 
our country must necessarily possess qualifications 
equal to those displayed b}' a business man in our 
towns, although differing in kind. The gentle- 
man above named has been prospered in hi.s efforts 
in life and owns a considerable amount of land in 
Canton Township. On section 18 he has erected 
a large brick residence, which is conveniently ar- 
ranged and handsomely furnished. The dwelling 
is accompanied by adequate and substantial out- 
buildings, and the land surrounding it has been 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



273 



brought to a good position as regards its cultiva- 
tion and productiveness. 

The natal da}- of our subject was Jainiar}- 19, 
1837, and his birthplace section 8, of tliis town- 
ship. He is a son of Samuel Smith, who was born 
on the same farm in 1811. His mother, who bore 
the maiden name of Catherine Stump, was also a 
native of this county, her birth occurring in Perr}- 
Township, July 9,1809. Grandfather Frederick 
Stump was of German descent, and a native of 
Lancaster County, Pa. His good wife, who prior 
to her marriage was a Miss Schmidt, was also of 
German parentage. In 1809, the grandfather came 
to Perry Township, this county, where he entered 
a tract of land, which he cleared and placed under 
excellent cultivation. He was verj' successful, and 
at one time owned a large estate, of great value, 
but being unfortunate in some of his investments, 
lost the entire amount. 

Samuel Smith received his first schooling in the 
old-fashioned log house with its slab floor and 
seats, and a writing-desk made by laying boards 
on pins driven into the wall. This rude structure 
was later replaced by a frame schoolhouse, wjiich 
was a decided improvement on the first temple of 
learning. AVhen attaining mature years, he was 
engaged in merchandising in connection with his 
brother-in-law, Daniel Stump, in what is now the 
city of Rochester, and with the exception of two 
j-ears thus spent, he was always engaged in farming 
pursuits. He enjoj-ed the respect of his fellow- 
men as one who had demonstrated his ability in 
worldly' affairs, and whose personal character was 
worthy of commendation. He left a good estate 
at his death, which occurred in 1869. He was an 
active member of the Lutheran Church, and was 
in every way worthy of the consideration in which 
he was held. In his political views, he was a de- 
cided Democrat. His wife, who departed this life 
in 1890, had attained to the advanced age of 
eightj'-one years. 

He of whom we write was reared to a practical 
knowledge of farm life, and aided his father greatly 
in clearing up and cultivating the farm, which was 
entirely unimproved when it came into his pos- 
session. His earl}' educational privileges were 
limited to the district school, but the system of af- 



fairs in his native State ensured the good practical 
foundation which must always be obtained outside 
the schoolroom. Wlien nineteen j-ears of age, 
j-oung Smith attended school in Canton, where he 
received a good knowledge of books. He has al- 
ways been an extensive reader, and among the pe- 
riodicals found in his library will be seen many 
newspapers, he taking eleven, from which he gleans 
manj' points of interest to the scientific farmer. 

Although reared to farm pursuits, Levi Smith, 
when twenty-five years of age, learned the trade 
of a stone-mason, whicli he followed until 1872, 
and then engaged in what has since been his life 
occupation. In the above year, he bought the in- 
terest of the other heirs in the old home farm, 
which includes one hundred and fifty-eight acres, 
and which, under his management, makes handsome 
returns. His activity, keen foresight, tenacity of 
purpose, and skill in carrying out his plans, have 
made our subject successful in life, and in no small 
degree have contributed to the material prosperity 
of Canton Township, and likewise of Stark 
County. He gives his chief attention to the rais- 
ing of corn and wheat, and is numbered among 
the most prominent farmers of this section. In his 
career will be found a lesson of encouragement to 
poor boys, exhibiting, as it does, the result which 
may be obtained by steadfast industry and integ- 
rity. Mr. Smith is a very methodical farmer and 
keeps a complete set of books, which show the 
yearly expenses of his estate to be $700. 

The marriage of our subject with Miss Maiy A. 
Foltz was solemnized in November, 1862. Mrs. 
Smith is a native of Perry Township, this county, 
and a daughter of Samuel and Catharine Foltz. 
To them has been born a family of eight chil- 
dren, viz: Frances Emma, Mrs. David Harmon; 
Margaret E., Mrs. D. E. Hollibaugh; Trilly, the 
wife of Logan Doll; Jesse J., Samuel C, Ephraim, 
David, and Rosella. They have all been given 
good educations, and have been trained by their 
excellent parents to fill useful and honorable sta- 
tions in life. 

Altliough not in anj' sense a politician, Mr. 
Smith is active in local affairs and, with the pro- 
gressive element of Canton Township, is doing all 
that he can to elevate its social and moral status. 



274 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



and to contribute to its general welfare. He has 
been called upon to serve as a member of the 
School Board, with which body he has been ac- 
tivel}- connected since 1874. 



^ OHN T. TVEYBRECHT, a self-made man of 
I Aili.ince, is the senior member of the firm 
^^\ 'of We3brecht ife Son, proprietors of planing- 
^f^/J mills and lumber j'ards in this cit^-. He 
was born in France, January- 27, 1829, and is the 
eldest son in a family of three sons and five daugh- 
ters, who were born unto Plieobold and Anna M. 
(Prickard) Weyl)recht, natives of France. His 
father was a contractor and builder in the Old 
Countrj". Both parents are now deceased. 

Our subject was reared in the land of his nativ- 
ity and acquired a good education in the French 
tongue. He learned his trade with his father, and 
in 1853 sailed for America, landing in New York 
on the 10th of December. He then went to Penn- 
sylvania and worked at carpentering in Lycoming 
County for about four months. In April, 1854, 
he started for Ft. Wayne, Ind., but an accident 
delayed the train at Alliance, and this apparently 
trivial matter changed the whole course of Mr. 
We^'brecht's life. He here met with a German- 
speaking gentleman and by him was induced to 
remain in Stark Count}'. For three months he 
worked out by the day, and then started in busi- 
ness for himself as a contractor and builder, re- 
ceiving a great many contracts. In 1886, he built 
a small planing-mill, which in the course of time, 
on account of the rapid growth of Alliance, was 
found to be in the very heart of the city. His 
trade had also greatly increased with the growth 
of the town, and in order to enlarge his facilities, 
Mr. AVej'brecht removed to his present location 
and erected his extensive mills. He manufactures 
all kinds of lumber used in building, and has done 
an excellent business. He now employs many 
workmen and is aided in the management of the 



business by his sons, who have been admitted to 
partnership, and have relieved the senior member 
from much of the care and business responsibility. 
The plant covers about two acres of ground, and 
the works are supplied with the most improved 
machinery for the rapid and elticient execution of 
every description of planing-raill work and all 
job work in connection. 

In 1855, Mr. Weybrecht wedded Maggie Ho- 
necker, and unto them have been born three sons 
and three daughters. He is a member of the Odd 
Fellows' society, and of the Knights of Honor, and 
has proved a valuable citizen to Alliance. He has 
taken an active and intelligent interest in public 
affairs, and has aided greatly in the upbuilding of 
the city. He came to this country without capital, 
but by perseverance and econom_y has become pro- 
prietor of one of the leading industries of Alliance, 
has made a competency by his indefatigable in- 
dustry, and can now enjoy the fruits of his labor. 



yALLACE H. PHELPS, editor of the Al- 
liance Daibj and Weekhj Eevieic, was born 
in Atwater, Portage County, Ohio, August 
10, 1853. His boyhood days were spent in a some- 
what uneventful manner on a farm, and when sev- 
enteen, he entered the office of the Monitor at 
Alliance, having decided to learn the trade of a 
printer. His quickness and skill soon won for him 
the confidence of his emplo3'ers, and in 1872, two 
years after entering the office, he was made fore- 
man, a position which he filled with the utmost 
fidelity to his superiors. 

Starting out for himself in 1875, Mr. Phelps 
commenced the publication of the Alliance Weekly 
Leader, which for a number of years was conspicu- 
ous as a well-edited and ably-managed journal. In 
1887, he established the Daily Leader, which was 
the first daily newspaper published at Alliance, and 
filling a long-felt want, its able editor experienced 
a most successful ride upon the wave of prosperity. 
The credit for the flattering reception with which 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



275 



the paper met In the commuiiity was principally 
due to the skillful management and guidance of 
Mr. Phelps. It was not long before the paper was 
recognized as one of the leading and most enter- 
prising inland dailies of Ohio, and was a welcome 
guest in the homes of thousands of subscribers. 

.Tanuar\- 1, 1892, the Daily Leader was consoli- 
dated witli the Daily Rerieic, and Mr. Phelps was 
chosen editor of the combined publications. The 
printing office is located in a large building on the 
main thoroughfare of Alliance. Tlie first, second 
and third floors of the establishment are used as 
composing and press rooms, and both are commo- 
dious and conveniently arranged. Upon the first 
floor is also a well-stocked wholesale and retail 
stationer}' and book-store. Connected with the 
office is a well-fitted and finely-equipped job de- 
partment, which is supplied with all modern ma- 
chinery necessary for turning out the best grade 
of commercial, book and general job printing. 

As stated above, Mr. Phelps embarked in busi- 
ness for himself in 1875, and although less than 
twenty years have since elapsed, his efforts have 
already been crowned by the highest success, a just 
tribute to liis merits. A man of broad knowledge 
and an extended range of information, he is amply 
qualified to conduct one of the great newspapers 
of the State, and his position among the leading 
journalists is one of prominence and influence. He 
is actively identified with the Knights of Pythias, 
and ranks high in the social circles of Alliance. 



^^I'^"i^li^^€ 



Ip^ OBERT M. WILHELM. Stark County con- 
ly^ tains no more highl}' respected resident than 
tfc fli^ the gentleman above named, the seat of 
whose agricultural work is on section 10, 
Sugar Creek Township. His home farm consists of 
one hundred and forty-five acres of choice land, 
and he gives his attention to general farming, 
thriving in proportion to his zeal and perseverance. 
A tasty farmhouse, substantial barn and other 
buildings and the usual garden and orchard tracts 



meet the eye of a visitor, and the orderly arrange- 
ment and neatness everywhere noted are significant 
of the character of the owner of the farm. 

David and Susan (Oilman) Wilhelm, the parents 
of our subject, were natives of Dauphin County, 
Pa. Tliey emigrated to this county in an earlj'' 
day, locating in that portion which is now included 
within the limits of Summit County, where our 
subject was born, June 27, 1824. Finally, they took 
up their abode in Sugar Creek Township, a short 
distance south of Wilmot. The father had been 
twice married and his children who survive are 
Abraham; Robert M.; Susan, Mrs. Isaac Konage; 
Nancy, the wife of Jacob Shook; ])avid, and Lu- 
cinda, Mrs. Jacob Buxler. The elder Mr. Wilhelm 
died in 18G7, well known and highly respected in 
his township and deservedly loved by all who 
knew him. 

The subject of this sketch was reared to man's 
estate in his native county and was carefully 
trained b}' his worthy parents in all that goes to 
make an honest man and a good citizen, and in 
the district scliool received a good education. His 
marriage was celebrated Ma^^ 10, 1845, at which 
time Miss Elizabeth Wyandt, a native of this 
county, became his wife. Mrs. Willielm was born 
December 10, 1826, to Henr>' and Elizabeth 
(Warner) Wyandt, pioneers of Sugar Creek Town- 
ship, By her union with our subject she has be- 
come the mother of eleven children, of whom the 
seven living are: George W.; Emma, Mrs. Asbury 
Holm; James; Mary, the wife of Adolph Hay; Nora, 
Mrs. G.T. Warstler; Edward B.; and I'rof. John S., 
a teacher in the Fostoria (Ohio) Academy. 

Mr. Wilhelm, as the result of an industrious 
and useful life, has a well-improved farm and is 
regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of 
the township. He has held the office of Trustee of 
Sugar Creek Township and in school affairs has 
served for many years as a Director. In politics, 
he is a stanch Republican, and his manly character, 
gentlemanly bearing and enterprising nature com- 
mend him to the people, and he is one whose influ- 
ence is felt throughout tiie community. 

When seventeen years of age, our subject began 
to learn the cabinet-maker's trade, serving an ap- 
prenticeship of three years. He found this to be 



276 



POUTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



a very paying business and continued to follow 
liis trade, in connection with operating his farm, 
for a number of years. He has also been engaged 
in selling agricultural implements, and in all mat- 
ters pertaining to the good of Lis county, its up- 
building and material prosperity, he takes an active 
interest, and as a private citizen his life is irre- 
proachable. 



f 



' OHN PONTIUS. The Pontius family is one 
closely connected with the pioneer history 
of Stark County, and none of those who 
^^ have aided in l)ringing this region to its 
present material elevation and advanced civiliza- 
tion are better worthy of representation in a volume 
of this nature than its members. The gentleman 
whose name introduces these paragraphs is a native 
of the county-, having been born in Plain Town- 
ship, August 29, 1827, and is now enjoying the 
fruits of a life spent in usefulness and well-doing. 

The subject of this biographical review was 
reared to man's estate on section 28, Plain Town- 
ship, and attended the pioneer scliools taught in 
log cabins. In its furniture, the room was as prim- 
itive as in tlie method of instruction employed; 
on one side was a fire in a rude fireplace, and the 
furniture consisted mainly of slab benches with 
wooden pins for legs. Tiiere were no windows, but 
in the aperture caused by the removal of a log 
was placed a greased paper to serve instead of a 
glass. 

Young Pontius was orphaned by the death of 
his father when a lad of five years, and when thir- 
teen years of age worked out b}' the month, and 
as his services became more valuable received $8 
per month. Being the eldest of the family, the 
greater weight of responsibility rested upon him, 
and in working out in this manner lie armed him- 
self with the wherewithal to defray- the growing ex- 
penses. After four j^ears employed in working 
for other parties, our subject farmed the land be- 



longing to his grandfather, and continued to thus 
operate until 1850, when, his grandfather having 
died two years previous, he purchased one hun- 
dred and two acres of the estate that fall, and pre- 
pared to establish a home of his own. In April 
of the following 3'ear, Mr. Pontius established a 
home of his own by his marriage with Miss Mary 
Hoover, who was born in Franklin County, Pa., 
September 22, 1825. Mrs. Pontius came to this 
section with her parents, Henry and Margaret 
Hoover, in the year 1827, and with them made 
her home on section 9, Plain Township, until 
the year 1865, when they removed to New Berlin, 
and there passed the remainder of their days. 

To our subject and his estimable wife has been 
born a family of four children: Jacob H.; Lewis M.; 
Mar}' E., who married William H. Martin; and 
Thomas J. Mr. Pontius took possession of a valua- 
ble estate in Piain Township in the spring of 
1851, when the onl}' improvement it bore was a 
few acres cleared and a tumble-down log cabin 
and barn. By dint of perseverance he has made 
the estate what it is to-day, and in placing it in its 
present condition was ablj' assisted by his devoted 
wife, whose good judgment and prudence in 
household management were highly appreciated. 
Her character was such as to win the respect of all 
who knew her, and for her share of the work inci- 
dental to the Ohio pioneers she is gratefully remem- 
bered. She entered into rest September 30, 1891, 
mourned by many friends, whose heartfelt sympa- 
thy was bestowed upon her afflicted family. 

After the death of his wife, Mr. Pontius sold his 
farm to his son-in-law. In 1855, he erected a large 
frame house on the place, which he later remodeled 
and furnished in a manner which showed him to 
be possessed of ample means. He added to his acre- 
age at different times until his property included 
one hundred and fort3-two acres of excellent land, 
which he devoted to mixed farming. As before 
stated, this he sold to his son-in-law, William 
H. Martin, with whom he makes his home. He has 
bought and sold, in all, over five hundred acres of 
land in this township during the last fifteen years, 
and through his instrumentality the thriving vil- 
lage of Middlemarch was platted. He has made 
the handling of real estate his chief occupation 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



277 



for the past twenty years, and in this branch of 
business has manifested admirable judgment and, 
as a result, is now one of the wealtli}- and influ- 
ential citizens of the county. He is practically a 
self-made man, as he has acquired all his property 
by hard work, seconded by foresight and shrewd 
and careful dealing. He has shown much skill and 
enterprise in his business affairs and is prudent and 
cautious in his dealings, though at the same time 
he is wide-awake in all his transactions, which are 
alwaj's fair and above-board. 

Mr. Pontius is a very devoted member of the 
Lutheran Church, to which bod^' his wife belonged 
for a number of years. In his political affiliations, 
he is a Democrat and has taken an active part in 
local affairs, serving in the capacity of Land Ap- 
praiser on two different occasions. To such men 
as our subject, Ohio owes her present standing 
among her sister States. His excellent citizenship, 
his interest in all which will tend to promote the 
material prosperity and, above all, the moral and 
intellectual welfare of society, make him a valued 
member of the community in which he wields a 
decided influence. 



E^+^l 



lllOSEPH DICK, proprietor of Dick's Agricul- 
tural Works, and manufacturer of Dick's 
^^ I famous patent hay, straw, stock and ensi- 
^^^^ lage cutters and carriers, has his office and 
works on Sixth Avenue, Canton, Ohio, his tele- 
phone call being No. 11. The history of this 
house has been so intimately connected with the 
trade of Canton since its inception in 1874, that 
no record of the industries of the community 
would be complete that did not take special cogni- 
zance of this representative establishment. For 
eighteen years, this gentleman has, by his upright 
dealing and honorable business methods, kept be- 
fore the public and sustained himself as a manu- 
facturer of high repute. Although commencing 
business in a small and modest waj', he embarked 
on a prosperous sea, with the wind and tide in his 



favor, and now occupies beautiful and commodious 
quarters,his main building being a three-story frame 
structure, 40x180 feet, with two wings, 40x60 and 
40x80 feet, and each two stories in size. He employs 
about seventy men during the busy season, some 
of whom have been with him for sixteen years, 
and before putting his work on the market it is 
thoroughly tested and tried. With the best selected 
material, finest finish and best skilled workman- 
ship, his goods hold high rank, as they deserve. 
He uses steam power in his establishment and his 
machinery is of the latest improved "Lee" descrip- 
tion. His sales are made direct to jobbers, and 
he thus secures a very safe patronage. 

Mr. Dick was born in Jackson Township, Stark 
County, Ohio, ]May 28, 1840, to Joseph and Mary 
(Messmer) Dick, the former of whom was born in 
France and the latter in German^'. Mr. Dick, 
upon landing at Castle Garden, N. Y., almost 
immediately turned his footsteps West, locating in 
Cleveland, Ohio, where he followed his trade, that 
of a bl.acksmith. In 1837, he settled in Jackson 
Township, Stark County, Ohio. About 1880, he 
moved to Canton, where he and his wife died, at 
the ageof sevent^'-eightand seventy-two j^ears, re- 
spectively. The senior Joseph Dik was a man of 
progressive views in regard to the conduct of his 
affairs and he was also quite active in local poli- 
tics and ably filled a number of township offices. 
He was a member of the Catholic Church, and in 
this faith he reared his family of six children. 

The subject of this sketch was the eldest son of 
his parents' house, and his youthful days were 
spent in assisting his father on the farm and ac- 
quiring such education as the common schools 
afforded. Upon attaining his majority, he came to 
Canton, and for some two years thereafter he was 
engaged in making models and patterns, after 
which he was employed in the Ball Reaper Works 
at Canton in the capacity of a machinist. Upon 
the completion of his trade, he visited many of the 
towns and cities of the State in the capacity of a 
journeyman, after which he returned to Canton, 
which city has since been the scene of his labors, 
and here he is held in high repute as a man of 
business. 

In the year 1866, he was married to Miss Ros- 



278 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



anna McKittrick, daughter of Thomas McKittrick, 
of Rochester, N. Y., a Scotchman b.y descent. Mr. 
and Mrs. Dick are the parents of six children: 
Emma, at home; William, foreman in the mechan- 
ical department of his father's works; Charlie F., 
a student at Dayton College; Frank I., Agnes, and 
Laura. Mr. Dick is a member of the School Board, 
a Director of the Board of Trade, Vice-president 
of the Canton Home Savings and Loan Co., and 
has been interested in other worthy organizations. 
Progressive, enterprising and liberal, he has been 
largely instrumental in promoting the general 
welfare and industrial thrift of tbe city of Canton 
and is in every way worthy the high pLace he holds 
in public esteem. He and his family are members 
of the St. John's Catholic Church. 



♦^^ ^ i@® tl ^ ^^- 



aLLIAM MOFFITT. It is universally con- 
ceded that our happiness and well-being 
as individuals depend necessarily to a 
large extent upon our own efforts, upon our own 
self-culture, self-discipline and self-denial, and, 
above all, upon that honest and conscientious per- 
formance of individual duty which is the true 
strength of manly character. Notwithstanding the 
limited advantages afforded him in his youth, Mr. 
Moffltt has become the owner of a fine farm pleas- 
antly located in Tuscarawas Township, and is 
ranked among the well-to-do and enterprising agri- 
culturists of Stark County. The schools of his boj-- 
hood were few and his attendance in these was 
irregular, but he gradually' acquired the best of an 
education — that which a man gives himself while 
engaged in the ordinary pursuits oC life. 

A native of Washington County, Pa., our sub- 
ject was born March 12, 181.5, and is the son of 
Peter and Mary Moffltt, both of whom were na- 
tives of Ireland. The father, who was of English 
origin, emigrated to America in an early day and 
served as a soldier in the War of 1812. His wife 
accompanied her parents on their removal to this 
country when ten j-ears of age, and after her mar- 



riage with Mr. Moffitt resided in Pittsburgh a 
short time and then went to Washington County. 
When our subject was ten j^ears of age, he was 
brought by his parents to Jefferson Countj-, this 
State, where thej' resided a short time, and then 
took up their abode in Tuscarawas County, where 
they made their home for two j'cars. At the end 
of that time, the parents went to Waj-ne County, 
where our subject grew to mature j-ears. His edu- 
cation was limited to the log schoolhouses of that 
early da}', and the most of his time was spent in 
assisting his father in tilling the soil. 

William Moffltt was married November 19, 
1839, to Miss Lucinda Eldredge, who was born in 
Tuscarawas Township, this county, and is the 
daughter of Nathan and Elizabeth Eldredge, her 
father having come to this section as early as 
1811, whither he was followed by his wife four 
3'ears later. By their union three children were 
born to our subject and his wife: Elizabeth 
J., now the widow of James Fletcher; Mary, who 
is deceased; and Nathan E. The son was a sol- 
dier in the late Civil War and participated in the 
battle of Vicksburg, and was with Sherman on his 
memorable march to the sea. He was later wounded 
in the battle of Arkansas Post and returned 
home after a service of one 3'ear. 

When twelve years of age, he of whom we 
write was thrown upon his own resources and be- 
gan learning the shoemaker's trade, at which he 
served an apprenticeship of three years. Later, 
he followed the life of a journeyman and was 
also the proprietor of a shop, which lie conducted 
for six years, and then engaged in the mercantile 
business at Dalton, this State. Seven years there- 
after, in 1843, he came to this county and took up 
his abode on what is now his present farm, where 
he has resided since that time. His property in- 
cludes one hundred and sixty-five acres, which he 
developed from the primeval wilderness. He has 
had an extensive pioneer experience in this county, 
with the progress of which he has been closely 
identified, and to give the history of the county 
is only to state in general terms his own early 
discouragements and his later progress and fulfill- 
ment of hopes. 

Always in favor of those measures which will 





■^.yj^^^ 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 



281 



benefit the community, Mr. Moffitt has served as 
Trustee of his townsliip, and in liis political affili- 
ations he votes witli tiie Republican party, hav- 
ing cast his first vote for Henry Clay. With his 
wife, he is a devoted member of tiie Methodist 
Episcopal Church, having been connected with 
that body for sist}' years, during which time he 
has held many of the official positions. 

Nathan E. Moffitt, the son of our subject, was 
born in this count3-, October 14, 1843, and has al- 
wa3'S made his home here, with the exception of 
five years spent in the mercantile business in Dal- 
ton. In October, 1863, he joined Company I, 
Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, and with his regi- 
ment was mustered into Sherman's array. On re- 
turning from the field of battle, he was married, 
August 3, 1865, to Miss Celia O. Moxliimer. Like 
his father, he also votes for Republican candi- 
dates, and has been engaged as a local minister of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church for some time. 
He has also served as President of the Stark 
County Agricultural Societj', of which organiza- 
tion he was Director for four years. He is a mem- 
ber of the Farmers' Alliance, and wherever he 
goes his many noble attributes of character are 
recognized and valued, and also the spirit of phil- 
anthrophy which governs all his actions and wins 
for him friends among not only the rich, but the 
poor and unfortunate. 



i m t III! a|< |in 



i ACOB M. TRUBEY. This name is quickly 
recognized throughout Stark County, as it 
is borne b3' a gentleman wiio lias held the 
office of County Commissioner, and whose 
standing in the community is most excellent. He 
is a prominent and wealthy agriculturist of 
Sugar Creek Township, having a valuable estate, 
which, under careful handling, produces most 
abundantly. An elegant farmhouse, ample barns 
and outbuildings rear their walls at convenient 
points, and an orchard, garden and shade trees 
beautify the scene. 



I 



Our subject is a native of Pennsylvania, having 
been born in Ftanklin Count}-, May 7, 1820, and 
is a son of Jacob and Mary (Welty) Trubey, who 
were also natives of that count}-. Representatives 
of the Trubey family emigrated to this country 
from Hesse-Cassel, Germany, during the Revolu- 
tionary War, and the great-grandfather served as 
a patriot in that struggle. Jacob Trubey, the fa- 
ther of our subject, emigiated from his native 
State to this county in 1823, taking up his abode 
on the farm now owned bj' our subject in Sugar 
Creek Township. The land was partially cleared 
at the time it came into his possession, and a 
hewed-log house was on the place, into which the 
family moved and in which they resided until a 
more substantial structure could be erected. The 
father only lived about twelve years after his ad- 
vent into this county, and at his death left a wife 
and three children, viz.: Jacob M., Samuel J. and 
Nancy, the latter two of whom are deceased. 

The elder Mr. Trubej- was a very prominent man 
in his township, and had so long been numbered 
among its leading citizens, that the news of his 
death came as a personal calamity to manj' ac- 
quaintances, and caused a profound feeiingof re- 
gret. His business relations had been such as to 
demonstrate the activity of his mind and the hon- 
esty of his purpose, while his disposition was so 
kindly and generous, that he could scarcely be 
known without being loved. He occupied the po- 
sition of Justice of the Peace, and in other ways 
had considerable to do with municipal affairs, and 
while serving as Justice solemnized the marriage 
contract of fifty-two parties. He had served as 
administrator for ten estates, ranging in amount 
from five to sixty tliousand dollars, and in most 
cases he was executor. He closed up the affairs of 
two extensive dry-goods stores, also, in a manner 
perfcctl}' satisfactory to all the interested parties. 

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch 
was a lad of fifteen years when his father died, 
and being the eldest of the familj- the responsibil- 
ity of carr\'ing on a farm devolved upon him. He 
was reared on the home farm and assisted his fa- 
ther in doing all kinds of work that the pioneers of 
that time eng.iged in. His education was con- 
ducted in the common schools of his boyhood 



282 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



daj'S, which did not offer as good facilities for ac- 
quiring learning as those of the present day, but he 
made the most of his advantages, and by reading 
and close observation has made up for his early 
deficiencies in that line. 

Mr. Trubey, of this sketch, was married Decem- 
ber 12, 1844. at which time Miss Eliza, daughter of 
Nicholas D. and Mary A. Swan, became his wife. 
To them was born a family of seven children, 
four of whom are living, namely: Nathan, who 
makes his home in Arkansas; Harmon, who resides 
in La Grange County, Ind.; Esdras B., at present 
living in Jlinneapolis, Minn., and Freeman, who 
also lives in La Grange County-, Ind. Mrs. Trubey 
possessed that culture of mind and kindness of 
lieart wliicli won for lier the esteem of the entire 
community, and at her death, which occurred June 
14, 1858, she was greatly mourned. 

The lady whom our subject chose as his second 
wife, December 12, 1858, was Elizabeth Pher- 
son, who was born in this county, February 24, 
1833, and is the daughter of Theopolius and 
Eliza Pherson, who were earl}- settlers in Sugar 
Creek Township. Of the eight children born of 
tlie union of Mr. and Mrs. Trubey, five survive, 
who bear the respective names of Ellsworth J., 
Jennie E. (Mrs. Samuel Muskopf), Asa H., Ira T. 
and Alva P. 

Our subject is one of the most thrifty and pro- 
gressive citizens of the county, and as farming 
lias been his life work, he is thoroughly informed 
regarding the peculiar qualities of soils, the best 
methods of fertilizing, and the rotation of crops 
which will produce the most desirable results. 
Having prospered in life, he is able to surround his 
family with all the comforts and luxuries which 
money can buy, and bestows ujjon his children ex- 
cellent educational advantages. He is the pro- 
I)rietor of seven hundred acres of land, the greater 
portion of which is located in La Grange County, 
Ind., and upon his estates will be found the various 
improvements which may be expected of a man of 
jn-ogressive ideas. Politically, he belongs to the 
Republican partv, and is greatly interested in poli- 
tic*, keeping well informed regarding the issues of 
the day and the bearing of public events upon 
the nation. For three years he held the office of 



County Commissioner, and has done not a little for 
' the upbuilding and advancement of the section , and 
has given his support to those enterprises which 
) are calculated to promote the general welfare, and 
is honored and esteemed alike by young and old, 
rich and poor. He has also held the office of Trus- 
tee in Sugar Creek Township. For eighteen years 
he was Justice of the Peace, and has been serving 
for twenty 3'ears as Notary Public. The home which 
Mr. and JMrs. Trubey occupy is a beautiful and 
commodious structure, where they entertain some 
of the best people throughout the count}-, and, 
surrounded by children and friends, they are jour- 
neying down the hill of time, enjoying the fruits 
of industry and well-doing. 






!hA\ ARTIN SCHAFER. The gentleman who 
is at the present time responsible for the 
public funds of Perry Township has held 
that position since the year of 1876, and 
is widely and favorably known. No man is 
justly entitled to a more enviable place in the 
histoiy of Stark County's prominent men than 
Mr. Schafer, who has been usefully and honor- 
ably identified with the count}-, and with its ad- 
vancement in every w-orthy particular. He was 
born in Massillon, this county, on the 17th of 
November. 1838, and his parents, Martin and 
Arustine Wilhelmena (Held) Schafer, were born 
near Bingen on the Rhine, Bavaria, Germany, the 
father's birth occurring in 1793. 

The elder Mr. Schafer was reared in his native 
count!-}' and learned the tailor's trade. He was 
there married to Miss Held. He served six years 
in the German cavalry. About 1833, he took 
passage for America with his wife and three chil- 
dren, and after landing on this side of the Atlan- 
tic, he came immediately to Massillon, Ohio, where 
he worked at his trade until 1848. He then moved 
to Loudonville, Ashland County, Ohio, and there 
carried on a grocery store until his death, in 
1857. He was a prominent man and was one of 



PORTRAIT AND BTOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



283 



the organizers of the St. John's Evangelical 
Church, of Mas.siIIon,and was active in all church 
woric. 

Mrs. Schafer, mother of our subject, was the 
daughter of Ludwig Held, who was born in Ger- 
many, and who was a locksmith by trade. He 
came to America a few years after the Schafer 
family and located in Massilion, where he fol- 
lowed his trade, making all his locks b}' hand. He 
was a fine mechanic. At the time of his death, he 
was ninety-four years of age, and his wife w.as 
eighty-four. He awoke one morning and found 
his wife dead, and immediately said he did not 
care to live any longer. He died the same day, 
and they were buried in one grave. Thus passed 
away this devoted old couple. lie had been work- 
ing in the shop the daj' before. After the death 
of her husband, Mrs. .Schafer returned to Massil- 
ion; this was about 1858, and here her death oc- 
curred in the fall of 1871. Nine children were 
born to this union: Lewis, who is in Wellington, 
Kan., engaged in the meat business; Margaret was 
Mrs. McClintic, and died in Pittsburgh, Pa.; Chris- 
tina became Mrs. Zellers and resides in Massilion; 
Martin, our subject; William, who now resides in 
Massilion and is in the employ of Russell & Co., 
enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Fif- 
teenth Ohio Infantr_y, in 1862, and served until 
the close of the war. Caroline, now Mrs. Ber- 
gold, resides in Massilion; Jacjb resides in Cin- 
cinnati; Louise, Mrs. Cheney, resides in Kansas 
City, Mo.; and Charles died in Massilion. 

The subject of this sketch remained in his na- 
tive county until 1848, and then went to Loudon- 
ville, where he was early given employment in 
the grocery owned b3- his father. On account of 
this, he received but a common district-school 
education, and when he was sixteen j'ears of age 
his mother sold out and moved back to Massilion. 
After this, he entered the employ of C. M. Rus- 
sell & Co., and learned the beltmaker's trade, 
which he carried on for about ten years with the 
above-mentioned company. He would have been 
given the position of foreman had his health per- 
mitted it. He gave up his trade and engaged in 
the saw machine business, which he continued until 
the winter of 1888, a period of twenty j^ears. From 



1880 he was a partner of the firm of Schafer & Mausz, 
which continued until 1888, when they dissolved 
partnership. During this time, he became familiar 
with the settling of estates, was administrator, and 
continues that business at the present time, being 
administrator for several estates. He is Trustee 
for the John Madder estate .and became guardian 
of the cliildren. He is a careful, upright and 
very successful business man, and commands the 
respect of all. His residence is at No. 20 West 
Charles Street, and his office is at No. 18 North 
Erie Street. 

Mr. Schafer was married in M.assillon, in 1883, 
to Mrs. Elizatjeth Florence (Crosslaud) Dunlap, a 
native of Sugar Creek To^vnship, Stark County, 
Ohio, and the daughter of Augustus Crossland, 
a native of Middlebur3', Summit County, Ohio, 
and a blacksmith b}^ trade. He is now a resident 
of Navarre. One child h.as blessed the union of 
Mr. and Mrs. Schafer, Charles Leslie. 

For a short time, Mr. Schafer was Justice of the 
Peace, afterward Assessor of the Second Ward, 
and in 1876 he was elected Township Treasurer, 
and has filled that position in a creditable and 
satisfactory manner since. He is a member of the 
Ancient Order of United Workmen, and has been 
its financier for five years. He is an active mem- 
ber and Trustee of St. John's Evangelical Church, 
and in politics is a stanch Republican, his first 
Presidential vote being cast for Abraham Lincoln 
in 1860. He is a member of the Board of Trade 
and is one of the committee on statistics. 



-^^- 



\T| OHN gill is accounted a prosperous farmer 
of Lawrence Township, and, like the major- 
ity of native Germans, is progressive in his 
^^ views and of an energetic temperament. He 
now resides on a fine farm of one hundred and 
thirty-two acres on section 10, and his successful 
career has amply demonstrated the fact that per- 
severance and industiy will always succeed. He 
was originall}^ from Germany, and his father, 



284 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. 



Andrew Gill, was also a native of the same 
place. The latter was reared there, learned the 
cabinet-maker's trade, and was married to Miss 
Louisa Hammer, who was also a native of Germany. 
In the year 1837, he brought his family to 
America, and after landing on this side of the 
ocean, he came immediately to Lawrence Town- 
ship, Stark County, Ohio, and bought ten acres of 
land on section 11. There he settled, and there 
his death occurred in 1844. His widow subse- 
quently married Joseph Gill, his brother. Five 
children, one daughter and four sons, were born to 
the first union, and tliree children came to the sec- 
ond union. Mrs. Gill is now deceased. 

The original of this notice, who was the eldest 
child born to the first union, was about three years 
of age when he came with his parents to America, 
and his first schooling was received in Lawrence 
Township, in a German school. Later, he attended 
an Englisii school in Lawrence Township, and thus 
acquired a fair knowledge of the English language. 
After assisting on the farm and working at the 
carpenter's trade until twenty-one years of age, he 
and his brother Michel ran a threshing-machine 
for fifteen 3'ears in Lawrence Township. He was 
married the first time in 1860, to Miss Catherine 
Wagner, a native of Ohio, but of German descent, 
her father and mother having been born in the 
Fatherland. Mrs. Gill died in 1867, and left three 
children, as follows: Mary, wife of Frank Lobbie, 
of Akron, Ohio; Andrew married and resides in 
Doylestown, Wayne Count}-, Ohio; and Augusta 
resides in Massillon, and is a tinner by trade. 

Mr. Gill's second marriage was with Miss Me- 
linda Wilmont, a native of France, who was 
brought to this country by her parents when about 
two years of age. Five children, two daughters and 
three sons, were born to this union, viz: William 
J., Edward, Allie, Hattie and Oscar. After his firat 
marriage, Mr. Gill located on section 13, Lawrence 
Township, on a farm of twenty-five acres, where 
he remained for three years. From there he re- 
moved to Jackson Township and bought forty 
acres, upon which he resided for about three years, 
and then sold out, purchasing seventy-five acres 
on section 13, Lawrence Township. Two years 
later, he sold this and purchased the same number 



of acres on section 10, the same township, known 
as the Mobley Place, on which he remained for 
about three j'ears. After selling this, he bought 
the farm where he now resides, one hundred and 
thirty-two acres on section 10, and here he has 
tilled the soil ever since. He has accumulated 
most of his property by hard work and persever- 
ance, for he started out in life with only about 
$200. He has a good house and barn, and the 
place has a neat, cozy appearance. Mr. Gill also 
owns a business block in Canal Fulton, and this he 
rents out. He keeps a good breed of stock of all 
kinds, and has fifty head of sheep. He also occa- 
sionally buys and sells horses. 



^^ OBERT C. SLUTTS. It is doubtful if a man 
'l-^ can be found within the bounds of Stark 
County who has made a better record than 
^) the gentleman above named, who is the 
owner of one hundred and twelve acres of land in 
Bethleliem Township. His excellent reputation 
does not depend upon the solidity of his finances, 
but upon his personal character and the favorable 
knowledge his acquaintances have of his generosity 
and reliability. 

He of whom we write is a native of this county, 
having been born August 22, 1843, to James and 
Rachel Slutts, natives of Marjiand and Pennsyl- 
vania, respectively. The father of our subject was 
a lad of seven years when his parents emigrated to 
Ohio, the family' locating in Jefferson County, 
wliere he grew to manhood. Upon reaching mature 
3'ears, he took up his abode in this county, owning 
his first propert}' in Sugar Creek Township, where 
he erected a log cabin in the woods. In connection 
witii operating his farm, he carried on his trade of 
tanner and currier on his place, and died in 1881. 
Our subject is the eldest of the five children who 
survive, his brother and sisters being Elizabeth, 
Catherine, Anna and Josiah. Robert C. obtained 
onl}' a fair education, his school privileges being 
meagre, and the few months which he could devote 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



285 



at the temple of learning saw him seated upon a 
slab bench, perusing his text-books by the light of 
a greased -paper window and receiving warmth 
from a huge fireplace. AVhen ready to establish a 
home of his own, he was married, in March, 1864, 
to Miss Catherine Muskopf, the daughter of John 
Muskopf, a well-to-do farmer of Sugar Creek Town- 
ship, this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Slutts has 
been born a large family of children, of whom 
the following survive: James, .John, Anna, Charles, 
Malvern, Clara, and Ralpli. 

He of whom we write, as before stated, is the 
proprietor of one hundred and twelve acres of 
land, which is an excellent showing for a man who 
began his business career with no other capital 
than strong hands and a determination to succeed. 
To the devoted assistance of his worthy wife, her 
cheerful help in all his labors, and her wise counsel, 
Mr. Slutts feels himself greatly indebted. They 
are both members of the Evangelical Association 
and have been active workers in all good causes. 
Our subject has served for some time as School 
Director, and, like most of our agriculturists, he is 
of a progressive spirit and interested in the ad- 
vancement of the community and the people at 
la;rge. 






-51^5* 



ANIEL PAAR, Vice-president of the Canton 
Water Works, was born in Germany, April 
1, 1834. His parents, John D. and Margaret 
(Kauffman) Paar, spent their entire lives in their 
native province, Kurhessen, Germany, and, hon- 
ored by all who knew them, passed to the great be- 
yond when they had attained to a venerable age. 
Tiie father was an industrious man and a farmer 
by occupation, his labors being rewarded by the 
accumulation of a sufficient amount to protect his 
old age from the cares of poverty. He reared his 
two sons and four daughters to habits of industry, 
and by his counsel and training endeavored to 
prepare them for positions of usefulness in the 
world. 

A brother of our subject, George, emigrated to 



the United States in 1871, and died in Canton in 
1884. A sister, Catharine, still makes her liome in 
the Fatherland. Daniel was educated in his native 
province, where he learned the trade of a black- 
smith. Having resolved to seek a home beyond 
the ocean, in the great country of wiiich he had 
heard so much, he sailed for America in 1854, tak- 
ing passage at Bremen, and landing in New York 
j after a voyage of thirty-eight days. After reach- 
ing New York, he sought employment at his trade, 
and for about three months worked on the corner 
of Gold and Fulton Streets. 

From New York, Mr. Paar came West to Cleve- 
land, where, with the exception of a couple of 
days, he was unable to find work. In July, 1854, 
we find him in Canton, wliere he secured a posi- 
tion with Lorence Bechelc, and remained in that 
connection about five years. Although he re- 
ceived a very small salary, by economy he saved a 
portion of his earnings, and in 1859 engaged in 
business for himself. He formed a partnership 
with his brother-in-law, Henry Smith, and together 
they conducted a blacksmith and general repair 
shop until 1875, when the connection was dis- 
solved. 

In 1884, Mr. Paar engaged in the manufacture 
of carriages, taking his son. Charles L., as partner 
and the business was carried on successfully until 
1889, when it was closed out. The firm now en- 
gages in general repairing and horse-shoeing, and 
is known as D. Paar & Son, the junior member be 
ing Hcnr}' Paar. Since taking up his abode in 
Canton, our subject has accumulated considerable 
property as the fruit of his toil, and he has gained 
in addition that which is far better— the respect of 
his business associates and the friendship of those 
with whom he has social i-elations. 

April 12, 1859, Mr. Paar was married to Miss 
Catharine Schmidt, a native of Germany. They 
are the parents of three sons and one daughter, 
namely: Charles, a traveling salesman in New 
York; Henry, who is associated in business with 
his father; Louis A., a merchant in Canton, and 
Emma K. Mr. Paar has been closely identified 
with the material progress of the city in which he 
has so long made his home. For three years and 
more he has been the ethcient Vice-president of the 



286 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Canton Water Works, and is a Director of the 
Sewer Commission. Socially, he is a charter mem- 
ber of the Knights of Maccabees, and has been 
identified with the Independent Order of Odd 
Fellows since 1857, being at present the oldest 
surviving member of that organization in Canton. 
Politically-, he is a Democrat. 



' NDREAV HOLZBACH is well and favorably 
known to a host of acquaintances in this 
community, for he has been long and 
worthily identified with the stock-raising 
and farming interests hereabouts, and everything 
about his proijerty pronounces him an agricultur- 
ist of much energy and discrimination. 

He was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 24, 
1837, of which place his fatlier, Jacob Holzbach, 
was also a native. In 1868, the latter came with 
his family to America and at once turned his 
footsteps in the direction of Massillon, Stark 
County, Ohio, where he died in 1873. His wife 
was Catherine Sibalo, and two j'ears after the death 
of her husband she also passed from life. A fam- 
ilj- of twelve children were born to them, all of 
whom lived to honorable manhood and woman- 
hood; Nicholas was killed in the Civil Warand John 
was killed in a stone quarry at Bridgeport, Stark 
County, Ohio, but the other members of the family 
are living and in the enjo^-ment of good health. 

Andrew Holzbach was the third in order of 
birth, and wliile in his native land learned the 
trade of a miller, which occupation he followed 
until he came to America and for three years 
thereafter, being in the employ of Linn ifc Taj-lor. 
Succeeding this, he worked by the day in the coal 
mines of this county, then became a member of 
the German Coal Stock Company, of which he 
was a member for about two years. He next 
turned his attention to the grocerv and saloon 
business in Massillon, and from 1870 until 1882 
he devoted his energies to the successful conduct 



of this business. At the last-named date, he pur- 
chased the farm of one hundred and sixty acres 
where he now resides which, under his able man- 
.igement, has been made to yield abundant har- 
vests. On the 18th of Maj% 1863, his marriage 
with Miss Catherine Bast, a native of Germany, 
whose natal day was December 22, 1837, was cele- 
brated. Upon attaining her twenty-first year, she 
embarked for the New World which has since 
been her home. She has borne her husband six 
sons and four daughters: Charles, of Jonesborougli, 
Ark.; Frank. a foreman of the Ft. Wayne Railroad, 
Nora; John, a fireman on the Ft. AVa3'ne Railroad 
Anthony, Matilda, George; Willie, a barber at 
Massillon; Anna, and Clara. 

When Mr. Holzbach settled on his present farm 
it was but slightly improved with a log house and 
barn, but in 1882 he erected a substantial two- 
story residence at a cost of 12,000, and a good 
barn, 40x80 feet, in 1884, which also cost him 
^2.000. He has been closel3^ identified with agri- 
cultural pursuits in this vicinity and his well- 
established characteristics of energy, perseverance 
and unbounded industry have brought him safe 
returns. Careful, prudent and economical, but not 
in tlie least penurious, he is filled with the "milk 
of human kindness," and those who know him 
recognize in him a good friend and neighbor. 

He has always been in sympathy- with the Dem- 
ocratic party and has often been a delegate to the 
county conventions at Canton. He and his fam- 
ily are members and regular attendants of the 
Catholic Churcii. 



^^ LIVER AV. HOLL. A plain, untarnished 
I ) statement of the facts embraced in the life 
^^Z of Mv. Holl, who is now the ellicient Sur- 
veyor of Stark Count}', and a man well and favor- 
abl}' known to the people of the same, is all that 
we profess to be able to give in this histoiy of 
the count}'; and yet, upon examination of these 
facts, there will be found the career of one whose 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



287 



entire course through the world has been marked 
by great honesty and fidelity of purpose. 

Mr. IIoll was born in Jackson Township, this 
county, on the 13th of March, 18.')8, and was fourth 
in order of birth of six children born to the union 
of Reuben and Eliza (Roush) IIoll, natives, re- 
spectively, of Lancaster County, Pa., and Stark 
County, Ohio, the former born on the 15tii of No- 
vember, 1823. The paternal grandfather, Samuel 
IIoll, was also a native of the Keystone State, and 
of Swiss descent The maternal grandfatlier of 
our subject, Godfrey Roush, walked from Penn- 
sylvania to Ohio when young, and was one of the 
first settlers in Stark Countj'. Keuben Holl has 
followed the occupation of a farmer much of his 
life, and is now residing on a fine tract of land in 
Jackson Township. He was a school teacher for 
many 3'ears, and was also engaged in land survej'- 
ing in connection with farming. His wife died on 
the 18th of August, 1890. when in hersixt3--fourth 
year. She was a most estimable lady, and was 
highly esteemed by all. 

Oliver W. IIoll, like the average farmer boy, re- 
ceived his education in the district schools, but 
later he entered the Northwestern Normal School 
at Ada, Ohio, where he remained for some time. 
Still later, he taught a winter term of school in 
the country, and then began following the occu- 
pation to which he had been reared, farming, 
which he continued for a time. After this, he was 
Assistant City Engineer of Canton, under his 
brother, John II. IIoll, and filled this position in a 
very satisfactor}' manner for two years. In 1886, 
he was in the employ of the Missouri Pacific Rail- 
road Companj' in the State of Kansas, on construc- 
tion work, and the followingyear he was employed 
as draughtsman along the Ohio Railroad between 
Cincinnati and Louisville. During the latter part 
of that year, he was employed by the Union Pa- 
cific Railroad Company in the State of Kansas as 
draughtsman. In the spring of 1888, he returned 
to Canton, Ohio, and followed surveying and en- 
gineering in the city and country. He was thor- 
oughly familiar with his business, and in the fall 
of 1889 he was elected County Surveyor for a 
period of three years, on the Democratic ticket. 
This office he still holds, and is discharging the 



duties of the same in a manner reflecting credit 
on himself and party. In politics, he is a stanch 
supporter of the principles of the Democratic 
party. 

Our subject selected his life companion in the 
person of Miss Alice Essig, a native of Stark 
County, and their union was celebrated on the 28th 
of October, 1891. She isa daughter of William H. 
Essig. Mr. Holl and wife are wortliy members of 
the Trinitj' Lutheran Church, and have a pleasant 
and comfortable home at No. 136 North Plum 
Street. One child has been born of this union, a 
daughter, Ruth. 



-^^ 



^ Ife K. L. WARWICK. Among the rising 
\/\/li y^^^^S ™6'i of Stark County, native and 
\i^^ " to the manor born," none is more worth}^ 
of representation in this volume than this gentle- 
man, who occupies the responsible positions of 
President and Treasurer of the Upper Pigeon Run 
Coal Company, Secretary and Treasurer of the 
Warwick Coal Company and Manager of Sippo 
Mills. 

He whose name heads this sketch was born in 
this city, December 23, 1862, where he attended 
the common schools until reaching his thirteenth 
year, when he entered Nazareth Hall, Nazareth, 
Northampton Countj^ Pa., from which institution 
he was graduated when fifteen years of age. He 
then entered a school at Gambier, Ohio, where he 
prepared to enter college, and later, after entering 
Kenyon College, prosecuted his studies there until 
the close of his Sophomore year, when he returned 
home and went to work in his father's office and 
now has charge of the business. 

In 1885, Mr. Warwick was married in Pitts- 
burgh, Pa., to Miss Jessie M., daughter of J. J. 
Gillespie, one of the oldest residents of that citj-. 
The latter gentleman was very wealthy- and was a 
stockholder in one of the largest banks, and inter- 
ested in the oil trade of that locality; he is now 
deceased. To our subject and his wife has been 



288 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



born a son, John G. Our subject is Trustee of 
the $50,000 Improvement Fund, and is also a mem- 
ber of the Board of Park Commissioners. In his 
political relations, he is a stanch Democrat, and at 
the present time is serving as a member of the 
Executive Committee. The father of our subject 
is the proprietor of the Warwick Block, of this 
cit}', and is one of the most influential and pros- 
perous men of the locality. 



ll^Sil 



'BRAHAM VAN VOORHIS. It would be 
hard to decide in this country wliich 
State is the best, even if such a thing 
were possible; but it is certainly within 
the bounds of truth to say that the State of Ohio 
is one of the grandest and best, and equally is it 
true tliat Stark County, that State, contains within 
its borders some of the prettiest scenery and rich- 
est soil within the State. This statement could 
be more fully appreciated after a visit to tlie 
beautiful farm of Mr. Van V'oorhis, which is located 
on section 32, Osnaburg Township. The estate is 
well cultivated, and upon it first-class improve- 
ments have been made, and during the years in 
which he has devoted himself assiduously to its 
cultivation he has wrought great changes in its 
appearance. 

A native of Pennsylvania, our subject was born 
in Washington County, December 12, 1822, and 
is the son of Peter Van Voorhis, who was born in 
New York State in 1795. When a young man, 
the grandfather removed to the above county in 
the Keystone State, where he met and married 
Miss Margaret Sickman, a native of that State, 
and of German descent. Her father, Barnett Sick- 
man, was a farmer, and followed his calling in 
Pennsylvania. 

In 1824, the father of our subject came to this 
county, and a few years later purchased the south- 
west quarter of section 28, Osnaburg Township. 
The land, with tlie exception of a few acres, was 
entirely undeveloped, and an old, dilapidated log 



cabin stood on the place. There Mr. Van Voorhis 
made his home until his decease in 1867. In 
early life, he was an old-line Wiiig in politics, but 
on the organization of the Republican party be- 
came a strong advocate of its principles. The 
mother died in 1877, and was, like her husband, a 
devoted member of tlie Christian Church. 

The parental famil}' comprised fourteen chil- 
dren, six daughters and eight sons, four of the 
latter being deceased. Our subject, who was the 
eldest of the family, was obliged to carry on the 
farm on the death of his father, and thus was en- 
abled to attend school but a short time. When 
reaching his twentieth year, he was married to 
Miss Elizabeth Ingle, daughter of Michael Ingle, 
one of the earliest and most prominent settlers in 
Stark County. 

After his marriage, Mr. Van Voorhis farmed in 
Osnaburg Township for one year, and then re- 
moved to the Samuel Ake Farm, which he rented 
for eight successive years, after which he pur- 
chased it, but after keeping it eight years, he 
sold it and purchased his father-in-law's estate, 
which consisted of one hundred and sixty broad 
acres, where he has since resided. In addition to 
raising the crops which are best adapted to the 
soil in his localit3', our subject raises good grades 
of sheep and cattle, making a specialty of Short- 
horn cattle. In 1867, he embellished his place by 
the erection thereon of a commodious residence, 
which is one of the best in the township. Five 
years previous, he built a large barn, sufficient 
for the storing of large quantities of grain and the 
shelter of stock. 

Of the five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Xan- 
Voorhis, we make the following mention: Mar- 
garet died at the age of four years. John died in 
1887, leaving a wife and two sons, Lawrence and 
Arthur. Cyrus lives at home, and aids his father 
in the operation of the farm; he married ]\Iiss 
Ellen Judd, of this township, and has three chil- 
dren. Sarah died when in her twentieth year. 
Emma married Levi Bowman, and has one child. 
The mother of these children died Februaiy 20, 
1892, at the age of seventy-one j'ears. 

In politics, Mr. A'an Voorhis is a believer in and 
a supporter of the principles of the Republican 



J^ 









^s^" *^?7 






. ^^ytj^^,^G^>^.-<i<^ 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFXORD. 



291 



party. He is an active worker in tlie Christian 
Church, and in all w&ys is interested in the growth 
and best welfare of his township. He has been 
vevy successful in life, for when locating here his 
capital was ver3' limited. He has now surrounded 
himself with the various appliances for developing 
the soil, and has above all made preparations for 
the comfort of his family and their enjoyment. 
His spirit is liberal, and he is very prompt to 
aid the helpless and to contribute to every ben- 
evolent object and good work. Open-hearted in 
his intercourse and honorable in his dealings, he 
has hosts of friends. 



ri]_^ OX. GEORGE HARSH. One of the most 
liTji] popular, strong and flourishing financial 
'M^ institutions of Massillon, Ohio, is the First 
(^) National Bank, of which Hon. George Harsh 
is Vice-president. He was born in Washington 
County, Pa., on the 15th of March, 1810, a son of 
George and Catherine (Strieker) Harsh, the former 
of whom was born in Pennsylvania, a farmer of 
German descent. In 1813, he came overland to 
Ohio with his wife and six children, and two and 
a half miles northwest of Massillon lie entered one 
hundred and sixt3' acres of land, and purchased 
one hundred acres more. Part of this laud was 
successfully tilled until his death, August 16, 1833, 
at the age of seventy-three years. Although he 
and his faniil}' were compelled to endure many 
hardships and privations during their early resi- 
dence in this section, Mr. Harsh was a man of 
sound judgment, and realized the fact that the 
land in Stark County was very fertile and that his 
early labors and hardships would be well rewarded 
in after 3ears. He was a member of the German 
Lutheran Church, as was also his wife, who was born 
in Washington County, Pa. Her demise occurred 
January 21, 1843, at the age of seventy-six j'ears. 
The country was in a primitive condition at the 
time of their settlement, and the town of Massil- 
lon was unknown until about 1826, when a few 
houses began to be erected, 
14 



Hon. George Harsh i-eceived his initiator3' edu- 
cation in the log schoolhouse of his boyhood da3'S, 
but this he supplemented by an academical course 
in Canton, during which time he improved every 
opportunity and became a well-informed 3-oung 
man. He devoted the summer seasons to assisting 
his father in tilling the home farm until, at the age 
of twcnt3'-two years, he came to Massillon and en- 
gaged in partnership with his brother Jacob, who 
commenced business in 1828 in a mercantile es- 
tablishment, the firm being changed and known as 
J. & G. Harsh. Two 3'ears later, Jacob died, in 
March, 1834, aged thirty-three 3'ears. George then 
became the sole proprietor, and although he was 
sometimes associated in business with others, be- 
cause of his small capital, he was principally alone 
for the succeeding twent3'-three 3'ears. He was 
pushing, energetic and honest, consequently suc- 
cessful, and the magnitude of his business nei^es- 
sitated a visit to the East about once a year to look 
up the prevailing modes, and to purchase goods, 
the trip being made by stage. 

About 1866, he disposed of all interests in the 
mercantile business, and has since dealt in real 
estate, principall3' farming land, and is now the 
owner of three farms in Stark Count3' near Massil- 
lon, each comprising one hundred and sixty acres, 
and all improved with fair buildings, beside which 
he has fort3' acres of unimproved wood land. He 
is also the owner of a business block in Massillon, 
and two residences. His own residence was erected 
in 1840, and makes him a substantial, commodious 
and pleasant home. He has ever been a warm pat- 
ron of education, and has for 3'ears been connected 
with the Charity- School of this place, in the capac- 
ity of President and Trustee, but resigned these 
positions recently, on account of ill-health. He 
has also been Director in the Massillon Union 
School for eighteen 3-ears. For man3- years he was 
a member of the Cit3' Council of Massillon, and 
altogether his name has been closel3' connected 
with the interests of this place for nearl3' sixty 
3ears. His friends are legion, for he has been a 
resident of Stark City for about eighty years. Al- 
though he has passed the eight3--second milestone 
of his life, his intellect is clear and sound, and does 
not show in the slightest degree the "ravages of 



292 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



time." He has always thrown his influence on the 
side of justice and right, and been one of the fore- 
most and most liberal supporters of worthj- public 
enterprises, churches especially being the recipients 
of his bounty. In his political views, he has 
alwaj's been in sympathy with the Republican 
partj^ in the tenets and doctrines of which he is a 
firm believer and supporter, and this party showed 
its appreciation of the influence he exerted in its 
behalf, by electing him to the House in the State 
Legislature in 1846, which position he ably filled 
one term. In 1860, he was honored by a second 
election to the Senate of Ohio, and served four 
j-ears, beginning in 1860, and was an able, faithful 
and incorruptible Legislator. This was the most ex- 
citing time in the history of the State, but, as usual, 
Mr. Harsh acquitted himself with credit, and to the 
satisfaction of his constituents. He was Chair- 
man of the Committee on Claims and Public 
Works in the Senate, and a member on other 
important committees, and was one of the men to 
elect .John T. Sherman to the United States Senate 
for his first term. He was also a Director of the 
Ohio Penitentiary for the years 1867 to 1873, in- 
clusive. 

Mr. Harsli was first married to Miss Susanna 
Stoakley, a native of Stark Countj', and has one 
grandchild, Fannie H., wife of I. E. Pierce, of Day- 
ton, Ohio. His second marriage was to Miss Jane E. 
Smith, and his third to Miss Sarah E. McCarthy, 
who is now deceased. He has no children living. 
Througliout Stark County his name is a s3'nonym 
for integrity, generosity and kindness. 



\f| AMES S. BEAZEL. It is not necessary for 
a visitor in the rural districts to understand 
^^ I agriculture in order that he maj- know the 
v^g/' good farmers in a section. The sight of 
tumble-down fences, machinery exposed to the 
weather, and inadequate shelter for stock and crop, 
is sufficient to stamp the proprietor of a farm as 



one lacking in enterprise and judgment. Well- 
built farm structures, neat fences and fields, where 
useful grain has the upper hand of the weeds, are 
equally conclusive proof of the skill and energy 
of him under whose management tliis state of 
things exists. 

The subject of this notice is numbered among 
the enterprising farmers of Bethlehem Township, 
where he has a fine farm of one hundred and 
sixty-Bve acres located on section 23. • He was 
born in Westmoreland County, Pa., February 6, 
1833, and is the son of John N. and Sarah (Shep- 
ler) Beazel, also natives of the Keystone State, 
and both it is said are of Swiss descent. When a 
lad of tliirteen years, our subject, in compan\' with 
his father and mother, emigrated to this county, the 
journey being made overland in a covered wagon 
and bugg3'. They located upon the farm which is the 
present property of our subject, where they were 
ranked among the earliest settlers. The father 
built a hewed-log house in the woods, and the fam- 
ily endured all the hardships common to life in a 
new country. 

The original of this sketch was one in a family 
of eleven children, of whom the following sur- 
vive: Matliew, Mary, James S., Clara, Mrs. H. 
Vandorsten, William N. and Harvey T. The hus- 
band and father departed this life April 11, 1851, 
and in his death the county lost one of its best 
citizens. His wife, who survived him many years, 
passed to the land beyond in 1873. 

James S. Beazel grew to manhood amid the pio- 
neer scenes of this county, and has done his share 
in opening up the country for those who should 
follow. Like most of the farmer lads, he obtained 
his education in the district school, and for four- 
teen winters taught school successfull}- in his 
neighborhood. He has always kept himself thor- 
oughl}' posted in regard to what was going on 
about liim, and has at all times been keenly alive 
to the interests of township and county, and has 
been an important factor in promoting them. 

The lad}' to whom Mr. Beazel was married, in 
November, 1855, was Miss Louisa Meredith, a na- 
tive of Coshocton County, this State, her birth oc- 
curring May 4, 1833. She is the daughter of Job 
and Margaret (Aunspaugh) Meredith, and by her 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



293 



union with our subject became the mother of 
eleven children, all of whom are living with one 
exception. They bear the respective names of 
William A., Alice (Mrs. R. B. Fuller), John N., 
Henry H., Charles D., Clarence, Laura A., Lata 
Blanch, Sarah P. and James S. Francis Albert is 
deceased. 

Mr. Beazel is the proprietor of a valuable estate, 
which includes one hundred and sixty-five acres of 
well-tilled land, which is one of the best-managed 
in this portion of the county. He has been pro- 
gressive in all things, accumulated a handsome 
propertv, and now ranks among the wealthy men 
of this county. He has been the recipient of pub- 
lic honor from his fellow-citizens, who have recog- 
nized his superior qualifications, and have called 
him to assist in the administration of public affairs. 
He served for some time as a member of the School 
Board, and politically is a stanch Prohibitionist. 
He is a member of the Church of God, towards 
the support of which he is a liberal and constant 
contributor, and as one of the self-made citizens 
of Stark County we are pleased to present his 
sketch in this volume. 



'' ' °^ 



E^^ 



[fl lEUT. THOMAS H. RUSSELL. The study 
I (@ ^^ *^^ careers of those who have been the 
jl'— ^, architects of their own fortunes in the 
various departments of business, furnishes lessons 
of inestimable value to youths just entering their 
chosen professions and encourages thein to greater 
efforts for success in life. The gentleman whose 
name introduces this sketch, and who is a member 
of the well-known firm of Russell & Co., at Massil- 
Ion, has been successful in the best sense of that 
word, for he has not only accumulated a fortune, 
but has gained that which is better, the esteem of 
his large circle of acquaintances and the regard of 
every one with whom he has had business or so- 
cial relations. 

Born in Alstead, Cheshire County, N. II., May 
15, 1828, our subject is the sop of Cyrus and 



Louisa (Stratton) Russell, natives, respectively, of 
Weston and Lincoln, Mass. For a complete sketch 
of the parental family, the reader is referred to the 
biogra))hy of Joseph K. Russell, presented else- 
where in this volume. When an infant of one 
j'ear, our subject was taken by his parents to Ver- 
mont, where he passed his boyhood days in Sutton, 
Caledonia County. After completing the studies 
of the common school, he entered the Hancock 
(N. H.) Academy, where he remained for one year. 
He also worked for a short time in the Harrisville 
Woolen Factory. 

In 1847, Mr. Russell left Sutton and proceeded 
by canal from Troy to Buffalo, thence by steamer 
to Cleveland, and from that place by stage to Mas- 
sillon, where his brothers were established in busi- 
ness as manufacturers of threshing-machines. He 
entered their shop on Erie Street and learned the 
machinist trade, with which he became so familiar 
that he was appointed superintendent of the ma- 
chine shop, and became a stockholder in the same. 

During 1863, Mr. Russell was a member of the 
Home Guards, in which he was Lieutenant. In 
May of the following j'car, he enlisted in Company 
A, One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio Infantry, 
and was mustered in as First Lieutenant at Colum- 
bus, where the company was stationed. In Sep- 
tember, 1864, he was honorablj^ discharged, and 
returning to Massillon, resumed his work as su- 
perintendent of the machine shop. He patented 
several articles, among them a concave adjuster, a 
vibrating screw, and the worm-beater, the latter be- 
ing patented in 1890. He has always been inter- 
ested in public enterprises, and was one of the or- 
ganizers of the Massillon Electric Light, Heat and 
Power Company, in which he is a Director and 
stockholder. 

At Massillon, September 13, 1853, Thomas H. 
Russell and Miss Eleanor Dunn were united in 
marriage. The father of Mrs. Russell, Edward 
Dunn, was born in Ireland, whence he accompanied 
his parents to Philadelphia, and there found em- 
ployment as a moulder in brass. When a young 
man, he came to Ohio, where he was married. He 
purchased a farm in Tuscarawas County, which he 
commenced to improve, but died soon afterward of 
cholera, about 1831, The mother of Mrs. Russell 



294 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



bore the maiden name of Julia Fox, and was 
born in Brookfield, Stark County. Her father, 
Jehial Fox, was born in Vermont, whence he re- 
moved to Essex County, N. Y., and was there mar- 
ried. In 1812, he came to Stark County with a 
wagon and team, and first engaged at his trade of 
a carpenter, but later bought twenty acres in the 
village of Brookfield, where he lived for several 
years. In 1826, he located in Kendall (now the 
Fourth Ward), and resided there for five 3'ears, 
when he removed to a thirty-five-acre farm in 
Perry Township, residing there until his death in 
1859. He helped to build the locks in the canal, 
and was such a skillful workman that he could 
contrive anything for use in a house. His wife 
was known in maidenhood as Annie Doxsee, and 
was born in Essex County, N. Y. 

After the death of the father of Mrs. Russell, her 
mother was again married, her second husband be- 
ing Sir. Marsh, with whom she removed to Fred- 
ericksburg, Iowa, and there died in 1881, when 
about seventy years old. Mrs. Russell, the only 
child of the first marriage, was born in Tuscarawas 
County, but was reared in Massillon. She at- 
tended the first union school held in this place, 
which was also the first one in Ohio. She is a lady 
of refine. i.ent, a sincere Christian, and holds mem- 
bership in the Presbyterian Church, where she has 
served as President of the Ladies' Society. 

Mr. and Mrs. Russell have been bereaved by 
death of two children: Edward S., who died at the 
age of six 3^ears; and Nellie J., whose death oc- 
curred when she was four j-ears old. The surviv- 
ing members of the family are as follows: Warren 
E., Laura M. and Ilattie M. The only son was 
graduated from the High School of Massillon, later 
fitted for college at Gambler, and is a graduate of 
Amherst College. He finished his legal studies in 
the law department of Harvard College, and was 
admitted to practice at the Bar of the State. He 
commenced the practice of his profession in Salt 
Lake City, but on account of his father's illness, 
returned to Massillon, and now has charge of the 
collecting department of Russell & Co. The 
two daughters are accomplished young ladies, both 
graduates of the female seminary at Northamp- 
ton, Mass., and are now at home. The family 



abode is a commodious and elegantly furnished 
residence on the corner of Plum and Prospect 
Streets, and was erected in 1882 by Mr. Russell. 
In political matters, Mr. Russell is a stanch Re- 
publican, and was elected on that ticket to the 
office of City Treasurer, in which capacity- he 
served for several years. He is a man of travel, 
and with his wife has visited many places of inter- 
est in the LTnited States. In 1876, he attended the 
Centennial; in 1884, he made a trip to California, 
and six years afterward visited that State a second 
time. April 17, 1891, he was seized with a paraly- 
tic stroke, and for three mouths was unable to 
move. His rol)ust constitution is gradually con- 
quering the disea.se, and he is now rapidly regain- 
ing his strength. He is a man of unusual geniality 
of disposition, and his unfailing courtesj- wins 
many friends, while his fine business talents com- 
mand universal recognition. 



~^g 



i^ ETER YODER, farmer and stockman. 
I' Stark County, Ohio, is conspicuous for its 
magnificent farms, that are faultless in the 
way of management and the order in 
which the}' are kept, and those in Nimishillen 
Township are especially advantageously located, 
the land being rolling and well watered, fertile and 
productive. Mr. Yoder's estate of three hundred 
and twenty-seven acres of fine land is located on 
section 36, and he is to be congratulated on the 
perfect method and order with which his agricul- 
tural affairs arc conducted. He was born in Nimi- 
shillen Township, April 30, 1841, to Christian and 
Annie (Kloppenstein) Yoder, the former of whom 
was born in France, in August, 1811, and came to 
America when about twenty-three j'cars of age, 
and in this country was married and reared his 
family of five children, of whom the subject of 
this sketch was the fourth, and of whom four are 
still living. Christian Yoder was well educated in 
his native land, and in time obtained enough 
money to enable him to purchase eight}- acres of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



295 



land in the same school district in which Peter 
Yoder, his son, is now residing, but later sold it 
to purchase one hundred and sixty adjoining the 
latter's farm. Although a Republican, politically', 
ho is not a politician. He was brought up in the 
Ornish Church, and was elected to serve as a 
preacher, but upon refusing to do so, was thrown 
out of the societj'. His children were as fol- 
lows: Christian, who died at the age of eighteen 
j'ears; Anna (Mrs. Brumbaugh) lives in Louis- 
ville, and has one son, Oliver; Barbara married 
Isaac Markley, by whom she has one sou, Elmer, 
and resides in Plain Township; Maria married An- 
drew Pontius, and lives in Louisville; and Peter, 
the subject of this biography. The paternal grand- 
father. Christian Yoder, was Mayor of the city in 
which tliey lived in France, but came to America, 
and in this country was called from life. 

Peter Yoder, in his youth, alternately assisted 
on the farm and attended the district school near 
his home, and being a boy of good mental abilities 
he made fair progress in his studies. He remained 
with his father, assisting him on the home farm, 
until he w.as about twenty-seven years of age, and 
was given wages for his services after he had at- 
tained his majority. November 17, 1867, he was 
married to Miss Nancy Folk, of Nimishillen Town- 
ship, born May 11, 1849, and a daughter of Peter 
and Lj'dia (Reese) Folk; both of whom were born 
in Stark County, and reside near Louisville. For 
one year after his marriage, Mr. Yoder resided with 
his parents, then with what monej' he had saved, 
and with some help from his father, he bouglit one 
hundred acres of land where he now resides; the 
remainder of his land he has purchased in small 
tracts, until he now has his present large farm. He 
has built one of the handsomest houses in the 
vicinity, which was put up at a cost of 15,000. and 
contains all the modern conveniences. It is finely 
finished, both inside and out, and is attractive 
in design. lie handles a good many cattle and 
sheep, feeding both for the market, which business 
he finds not only profitable but pleasing. 

In his political sentiments, Mr. Yoder is a Re- 
publican, and, being a patron of education, he has 
been a member of the School Board for many 
years, and by the employment of good teachers, 



he has raised the standard of education in his sec- 
tion. He is decidedly progressive in his views, 
and is a member of the County Agricultural So- 
ciety, of which he is an active and interesting 
member. He has eight children living: Ulysses S., 
born June 10, 1868, at home; Rheuhama, October 
28, 1869; Ida, born November 10, 1870, died 
August 5, 1871; Forest born February 8, 1875; 
Joseph, October 7, 1876; Augusta M., January 7, 
1878; Myron, December 16, 1879; Minnie, May 10, 
1881; and Erma E., April 3, 1887. 



iTi P. YOCKEY, editor and proprietor of the 
Fulton Signal, published in Canal Fulton, 
Stark County, Ohio, is a native of the 
county in which he still makes his home. 
He was born in Lawrence Township in 1847, and 
is a son of Piiilip and Elizabeth Yockey, who 
were laboring people of Lawrence Township. At 
the early age of seven years, our subject was left 
an orphan and resided witli relatives until twelve 
years of age, at which time he commenced work- 
ing on a farm by the month, and for five years 
was in the employ of Christian Eschliman, a 
sketch of whom is given on another page of this 
work. To this gentleman Mr. Yockey owes a 
debt of gratitude for his judicious advice and 
aid. In the mind of the young lad he aroused 
ambitions for something- higher, and helped him 
in carrying out his best desires. 

At the age of nineteen years, Mr. Yockey en- 
tered the Smithville Academy, of Wooster, Ohio, 
where he remained for three years. During the 
winter season he engaged in teaching, and after 
completing his education, followed that profession 
for some years, meeting with excellent success. 
In 1869, he became the Superintendent of the 
Canal Fulton Schools, remaining in charge for 
three years, after which he went to Doylestown, 
where he was also engaged in teaching for two 
years. In the year 1875, he returned to this place 
and entered upon his present business. He pur- 



296 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



chased the Herald, but changed the name of the 

paper to the Signal. Since that time, he has en- 
gaged in its publication. It is an excellent jour- 
nal, devoted to home interests, literature and 
general news, and is well conducted. The edi- 
tor is a ready and interesting writer, and his 
paper is a bright and news,y sheet. He has al- 
ready secured a liberal patronage and the sub- 
scription list is constantly being enlarged. He 
also carries on a job office, and in this depart- 
ment does an excellent line of work. 

On the 20th of September, 1877, Mr. Yockey 
was united in marriage with Miss Arabella Porter, 
daughter of John Porter, of Lawrence Township. 
She died in 1882, leaving one child, Leila Jo}'. 
Mr. Yockey has served as Township Clerk for two 
terms, and also filled the office of Clerk of the 
School P>oard for several years, his pul)lie duties 
being faithfully performed. He is a friend to edu- 
cation and has the best interests of the commu- 
nity at heart. In all works of advancement and 
progress, he is found in the front rank, doing all 
in his power to promote the general welfare. He 
is a thorough gentleman, who commands the con- 
fidence and respect of the people, and his sterling 
worth has won him high regard. 



IMON JOHNSON, Superintendent of the 
"Water Works of Alliance, has the honor 
of being a native of this count3'. He was 
born November 12, 1825, and is a son of 
Simon and Marj- K. (White) Johnson. The John- 
son ancestors were members of the Society of 
Friends, and the maternal grandfather was a Bap- 
tist minister. The parents of our subject emi- 
grated to the Buckeye State in 1823, locating in 
AVashington Township, Stark County. There were 
then but four families in the township, a few In- 
dians were still in the county, and wild game of 
all descriptions roamed in the forest. In the midst 
of the timber, Mr. Joiinson hewed out a farm and 
followed agricultural pursuits throughout the 



greater part of his life. About three years prior 
to his death, he removed to Alliance. 

Our subject is one of a familj- of four sons and 
five daughters. In the usual manner of farmer 
lads, he was reared to manhood. He attended the 
public schools of Jit. Union and was the first 
student to recite a lesson to Prof. Hartshorn, of 
that school. He also attended Marlborough Acad- 
emy and further pursued his studies in Salem, 
after which he taught school for one term in 
Washington County, Pa. He then followed farm- 
ing until his marriage, which was celebrated 
on the 3d of April, 1851, Miss Jane Teeters be- 
coming his wife. Unto them were born five chil- 
dren; J. Howard; Rosetta and L. M., both de- 
ceased; Mary K. and William W. The last-named 
resides in Chattanooga, Tenn. Mary, the only 
daughter, was appointed an operator in the Bell 
Telephone office, of Alliance, on its introduction 
here, and subsequently became general manager, 
being the only lad3' manager of the concern in 
the State. 

For eight years after his marriage, Mr. Johnson 
was a resident of Knox Township, and during 
three 3'ears of that time served as Justice of the 
Peace. In 1859, he came to Alliance. He had a 
contract to supply a large amount of wood to a 
company, and got out eight thousand cords. Dur- 
ing the war, he bought horses and de.alt in slock. 
In 1861, he was elected Mayor of Alliance, and 
held that office for two years, when he was elected 
Justice of the Peace, serving three years. He was 
then re-elected Ma3'or for two years, after which 
he traveled for the Forest Citj- Insurance Com- 
pany as General Agent for five years. Once more 
he was elected Ma3-or, and held the office for three 
successive terms, or six 3'ears, having served alto- 
gether in that jjosition for a decade. He was then 
employed by the Water Works Committee as Man- 
aging Agent, holding that position until JUI3', 1890, 
when he was elected Superintendent, which posi- 
tion he now fills. In 1866, he embarked in the 
insurance business, which he continued until be- 
coming Superintendent of the Water Works, when 
he turned over the business to his son, John II., 
who now conducts it and has one of the best 
agencies in the State. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 



297 



In his social relations, Mr. Johnson is a, member 
of the Masonic fraternity and the Knigiils of 
Honor. Himself and wife are members of the 
Disciples Church. He is held in the highest re- 
gard throughout the community, and has the con- 
fidence and good will of all. That he is quite 
popular is shown by his repeated re-election to 
the office of JIa\'or, and this fact also indicates 
the promptness and fidelity with which he dis- 
charged the duties of his office. 



^^EORGE W. MEYER is the agent for the 
[l[ (— ^ estate belonging to the Meyer heirs, and 
^^:^( resides at his pleasant home about a mile 
from the cit^' of Canton. He was born on the old 
homestead in this county, March 2, 1863, and is 
the fourth in order of birth in a family of five 
children. The pai'ents, Joseph and Catherine 
Meyer, were bo^h natives of the city of Baltimore, 
Md. The former was born in 1812, and with his 
father, Andrew Meyer, came to Stark County, 
Ohio, when a boy. Pie was reared upon a farm, 
and after attaining to man's estate, returned to 
Baltimore, where he was married. With his bride, 
he then came again to Stark County and settled 
on a farm near Jlcyer Lake, the old homestead 
which his fatiier had located. Here he carried on 
general farming and was one of the principal sheep 
raisers in this part of the country, owning as many 
as seven hundred head of sheep at one time, lie 
was successful in his business dealings, and as his 
financial resources increased, he made judicious in- 
vestments in land near Canton, purchasing one 
tract of two hundred and twent3'-five acres, which 
he owned at the time of his death. Healso bought 
a home and fifteen acres of land in Canton, and 
there resided until called to his final rest in 1869. 
He had previously sold some of his town lots, but 
Mrs. Meyer still resides at the old homestead at 
No. 151 West Tuscarawas Street. The house is 
surrounded bj' commodious grounds, comprising an 



acre and a half, on whlchstand some of the natural 
oaks of the forest. Mr. Mej'er was a man of great 
force of character, and of keen foresight, and won 
excellent success. In politics, he was a stanch Demo- 
crat, and was a member of the Catholic Church. 

Tlie children of the familj- are Elizabeth O., 
wife of John F. Blake, Maj'or of the Cit^^ of Can- 
ton; Edward J., a resident farmer of this county; 
Catherine, who resides with her mother; George 
W. of this sketch; and Henry C, who makes his 
home in Canton. 

Our subject began his education in the city 
schools of Canton, and was afterward a student in 
Emmitsburg, Md., for four years. In company 
with two of his brothers, he purchased one hun- 
dred and sixty acres at Meyer Lake, which he im- 
proved and transformed into a summer resort, one 
of the finest in the State. The}' there erected a 
boat-house and billiard halls, laid out a race track, 
and added many other attractions and improve- 
ments. A street-car line has been built from the 
cit3' and runs to the lake, a distance of about two 
miles. The farm of two hundred and twenty-five 
acres, which was purchased by the father of our 
subject, has been platted and laid out by the Meyer 
heirs into one thousand lots, very desirable for 
residences. A number of homes have already been 
erected. The lots are offered at reasonable prices 
and are in every way suitable for pleasant homes. 
George Meyer is sole agent and manager of the 
estate. 

The Meyer heirs have been very liberal in aid- 
ing in the upbuilding of the enterprises calculated 
to improve and benefit the community. They 
donated the twenty acres of land upon which has 
been built the Dueber Watch Works, which furnish 
employment to from fifteen hundred to two 
thousand men and women. They have also given 
liberally to other manufacturing industries and 
donated the land for the Me3-cr Park, which ex- 
tends from Adams to South Street. 

In the }-ear 1887, George W. Me^^er was married 
to Miss Helen Shriver, one of the fair daughters 
of Canton, which is the lady's native cit3\ They 
have a beautiful home on his farm one mile west 
of the city, comprising one hundred and twelve 
acres of choice and highly improved land. Their 



298 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



home is one of the Dcatest and most substantial 
country residences between Canton and Massillon, 
and its hospitable doors are ever open for the re- 
ception of their friends, who are man}'. 






/>^^KORGE K. SCHLICHTER. A long resi- 
dence in a eommunit}- gives to an individ- 
lal a standing whicli can scarcely be ac- 
quired otherwise, especially if he has made for 
himself a good record as a citizen. These thoughts 
are suggested by reviewing the career of Mr. 
Schlichter, who was born in this county, November 
29, 182i, and having been a continuous resident 
of Sugar Creek Township for almost sixtj'-eight 
years, has thus become widely and favorably known 
to the people of this region, and the fact that he 
is uniformly well spoken of is sufHcient indication 
of his true character. He possesses those genial 
and companionable qualities which are a free pass- 
port to the esteem and confidence of mankind, 
when supplemented b}' integrity and intelligence. 

George and Sarah Schlichter, parents of our sub- 
ject, were natives of Pennsylvania, and in 182-1 em- 
igrated to this count}- and located on an unim- 
proved tract of land in Sugar Creek Township, 
which is the property of our subject at the pres- 
sent tim«: Their first home was" in a log cabin, 
where the family resided until the land was cleared 
and a more suitable structure could be put in 
readiness for them. Here the father worked in- 
dustriously until his decease, which occurred in 
1862. 

Our subject is the only surviving member of the 
parental family, and was reared to man's estate in 
this count}-, trained to habits of industry and use- 
fulness and in the sentiments of honor, which had 
been his throughout life. He attended the district 
school near his liome, and, like the children of all 
earl}- settlers, enjoyed but limited opportunities 
for adding to that scant education. In the inter- 
vals of school life, he bore a share in the develop- 
ment of the home farm, and in this manner was 
thoroughly fitted to carry on an estate of his own. 



August 24, 1852, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Sarah Nichols, also a native of this 
county, and by their union has been born a fam- 
ily of seven children, of whom the three living 
are known as William W., Franklin and liaura. 
William W. married Miss Samantha Eberly, by 
whom he has one son. Mr. Schlichter owns a 
quarter-section of land, which is one of the finest 
farms in the county, being adorned with a com- 
modious residence and convenient barns and other 
buildings. Our subject casts his vote for the nom- 
inees of the Democratic party, and his life has 
been characterized by industry, punctuality and 
honesty, traits whicli always insure success, and he 
has prospered abundantly. 



gi^g^ i - -_! 



AVID SMITH. Canton Township is the 
home of many successful farmers, but none 
more prosperous than the gentleman above 
named, who is one of the wealthy residents of the 
county, owning and operating a fine estate just 
outside the corporate limits of the city of Canton. 
It consists of one hundred acres on section 8, all 
of which is under excellent tillage and improved 
with all that goes to make up a well-cultivated 
farm. A visitor to his home will see that he has 
not only erected good buildings, and has his farm 
well supplied with modern machinery, but that he 
keeps excellent grades of stock. 

Our subject, who is a son of Jacob Smith, was 
born on his present farm September 16, 1826. 
His father was born in Pennsylvania and was of 
German descent. He was a farmer by occupa- 
tion and came to this State as early as 1814, mak- 
ing the journey overland with a wagon. His 
first location was east of Canton, whence he later 
removed to what is now tlie property of our sub- 
ject. The country roundabout at that time was 
sparsely settled and in a wild condition. He 
built a log house, where he resided for some 
time, and later, removing to where the waterworks 
are now located, erected a flaxseed mill and at the 




RES!C:HCE OF G. N. SCH LI Ci-ITER , 5 EC.iiO., SU GAR CREEK TR, STARK CO.,0. 







«*^^ 






t » i=f= 



■/ I i A -A"*]- 






*^gs 



^^5r^^^^®J^^f^^§»tei®^t 



KLSiDENlEO'" rjA,/lD SMITH , 5EC b ,CANTUN TP,5TAT^LU0 




RESIDENCE OF SAMUEL MOFTSINGER , 5EC.8.,BETHLEHEM IP., 5TARK CO.,0. 



rORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



301 



same time was engaged in the manufacture of linseed 
oil. He also owned a tract of three hundred acres 
of excellent land, which was the fruit of his in- 
dustry, as he came to the county entirely without 
means. He was a leader in all public enterprises 
and was held in high repute by his fellowmen for 
the energetic conduct of his own affairs, his pro- 
gressive ideas regarding agriculture and the hon- 
orable way in which he carried on business. He 
was eighty-eight years old at the time of his de- 
cease and had been a life-long member of the 
Lutheran Church, to whose support he was a lib- 
eral and cheerful contributor. In politics, he was 
a stanch Democrat. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Elizabeth Rhodes, a native of PennsN'lvania. She 
reared a family of eight children and died in her 
seventieth j'car a devoted member of the Lutheran 
Church. David of this sketch was the youngest 
but one in the family, and received a good educa- 
tion in the old academy which stood on what is 
now the site of the public schools. He passed his 
early da3rs amid the surroundings of rural life and 
remembers the time when deer were very plentiful 
and Indians quite numerous about the old home. 
He assisted his father in clearing the estate, and 
when he had attained his majority he adopted the 
calling to which he had been bred, and has since 
followed agricultural pursuits. He began life on 
his own account when he reached his twent3'-fourth 
year, and in 1852 was married to Isabel F. Shorb, 
who was born in the city of Canton, where her 
parents are still residing. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Smith has been born a family 
of nine children, namely: William, Alice, Lizzie, 
George, Belle, Bert, Floy A., Ella, and Harry. 
Our subject has one hundred acres of excellent 
land, which has taken on a different appearance 
since it came into his possession, herds of domestic 
animals taking the place of the wild game that was 
plentiful here during his early residence, and 
fruitful fields and orchards replacing the pran-ie 
grass and the forest growth of former days. He 
is engaged in mixed farming and buys and ships 
stock to the eastern market on a large scale. He 
has platted several additions to the city of Canton, 
and disposed of some of his property to other 



parties who also laid it out in city lots. He has 
acquired a valuable property, and while engaged 
in his private affairs is at the same time one of 
those solid men who are very active in promoting 
the interests of the township. 

In 1868, Mr. Smith engaged in the brick-making 
business, which he followed successfully until 1880, 
and turned out annually about one million brick. 
He is a stalwart defender of Democratic principles 
and has served his fellow-townsmen as Trustee 
for fourteen j-ears. The Lutheran Church finds 
in him a most active and devoted member, while 
his good wife belongs to the Catholic Church. 



^>^^<m 



^^ AMUEL NOFTSINGER. Stark County has 
T^^ in this gentleman a fine representative of 
1) its agricultural class, as his energj' and 
enterprise have been leading factors in ad- 
vancing its growth in this section. He is a prom- 
inent and well-known resident of Bethlehem 
Township, and his name is associated with manj- 
plans that have promoted its welfare. His birth 
occurred in this county, July 22, 1833, whither 
his parents, John and Elizabeth Noftsinger, emi- 
grated in an early day, and took up their abode in 
a log cabin in the woods of Bethlehem Township. 
The3^ passed through the usual amount of hard- 
ships which fell upon the pioneers, but eventually 
succeeded in placing under excellent cultivation 
the fertile tract of land, which constantly in- 
creased in value in proportion to the improve- 
ments placed upon it from time to time. In the 
father's death, which occurred in 1846, the county 
lost one of her early and best citizens. Politicall}', 
he was a supporter of the Democratic party, and 
was in favor of all things that would in any way 
elevate society and contribute to the hai)piness 
and well-being of the people. 

Samuel Noftsinger of this sketch grew to man- 
hood in the enjoyment of fair school privileges 
and under home training that developed the vigor 
of mind and body. He recalls the da3's when the 



302 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



houses of the neighbors were few and scattering, 
and what may be called pioneer labor was still 
done in the vicinity of his home. 

November 29, 1855, Mr. Noflsinger and Miss 
Charlotte Nicholas, who was born in this count3^, 
March 26, 1837, were united in marri.age. The 
lady was a daughter of Amos and Charlotte (Van- 
dorston) Nicholas, natives of the Keystone State, 
whence they removed in an early day to this 
county and resided in Bethlehem Township. To 
our subject and his excellent wife have been born 
eleven children, nine of whom are living, namely: 
Eliza; Catherine married George Beck; Emma 
married Hiram Friend; Austin married Emma 
Bollinger; Ida, James, Ella, John and Alpheus; 
while two died in infancy unnamed. 

The original of this sketch took up his abode on 
his present farm in the fiiU of 1868, and has since 
been a resident upon it. His career has been dis- 
tinguished by rare energ}-, stability of character 
and prompt and systematic business habits, and 
his course furnishes an illustrious example to the 
young who are just starling out in the world to 
seek fortune's favors. His estate comprises eighty 
acres of good land, which is cultivated in a most 
profitable manner. He has been very prominent 
in local affaii's. and served one year as Trustee of 
Bethlehem Township. In his political relations he 
is a stanch Democrat, and is an active worker in 
the ranks of that party. John Noftsinger, an 
older brother of our subject, whose sketcli will ap- 
pear on another page of this work, prefers to spell 
his name without the" t." 



/^EORGE J. YOUNG. The name of Young 
||| (— , IS well known and highly honored through- 
^^J out Stark Count3^, and indeed beyond its 
bounds, as members of the family have been closely 
identified with the development of this section of 
Ohio, and it is confidently expected that all who 
bear the name will prove worthy of it and con- 
tinue the work so well begun by those of preced- 



ing generations. That this is the case in the life 
of Mr. Young, it needs but a mention of his name 
to his acquaintances to prove. He is numbered 
among the wealth3- and prominent farmers and 
stockmen of Pike Township, and has a high repu- 
tation as a man of tliorouglily upright character, 
stanch and true. 

George J. Young was born in this township, 
March 19, 1819, and is the son of George Young, 
Sr., who was born in Hagerstown, Md., and was a 
lad of nine years when he emigrated to Somerset 
County, Pa., with his parents. Making his home 
in the Keystone State for a twelvemonth after his 
marriage, which occurred when in his nineteenth 
year, he emigrated to this State and located for a 
time in Jefferson Count3% where he accumulated a 
sufficient sum of monej' with which to purchase 
a couple of horses and a few agricultural imple- 
ments, in order to carr}- on farming. In the spring 
of 1806, he came to Pike Township and took up 
his abode on section 16. The journey' hither was 
made overland, his wife riding one horse and car- 
rj'ing a small child, and the provisions and cloth- 
ing packed on the other horse. Reaching his land, 
Mr. Young immediately' began the construction of 
a cabin, in which the family lived until a more 
suitable structure could be erected. He met with 
many reverses in his new home, but being plucky 
and industrious, overcame them, and at his death 
left a good estate. Indians and wild animals were 
very numerous about their primitive home and 
often proved very troublesome. 

The father of our subject resided ou leased land 
imtil 1811, when he became the owner of the 
northwest quarter of section 16, upon which he 
erected a cabin, which afterward gave place to a 
large brick residence, which was the first of its kind 
in tlie township. During the War of 1812, he was 
drafted into service three times, but on each occa- 
sion furnished a substitute. 

In addition to carrying on his farming opera- 
tions, he kept a store in his residence for manj' 
j-ears, where he sold salt, iron, nails, glass, leather, 
etc. He was a firm believer in witches and witch- 
craft, and to the fact of his being left-handed, 
he attributed his power over them, and held firmly 
to the opinion that otherwise the^' would be able to 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



303 



gain au ascendency over him. He abandoned these 
views, and as civilization hroadened and deepened 
became less superstitious. At his death, wliich oc- 
curred in October, 1873, he had reached the age of 
ninet3--four 3'ears. He was considered one of the 
best business men in his section and enjoyed an 
enviable reputation as a man of firm principles 
and strict morality. 

The mother of our subject, whose maiden name 
was Catherine Heglar, depa''ted this life in 1839. 
She became the mother of the following twelve 
children: Sarah, Mrs. Jacob Brothers; David, who 
married Hannah Keiser; Jacob, who married Maria 
Donot; Mary, who became the wife of John Creeger; 
Henry, who married July Anne Fulk; Samuel, who 
married Caroline Creeger; Susan, who became Mrs. 
Clinton Henline; Barbara, who married Frederick 
HemiDger; George, who married Harriet Parker; 
Catherine, who became the wife of Andrew Staul; 
Daniel, who married Mary Darr, and Elizabeth, 
who died single when in her nineteenth j'ear. 
The lady whom the father of our subject chose 
as his second wife bore liim seven children: 
Frances, Almira, Frank E., Nora, Ebelene, and 
two who died in infancy. 

The original of this sketch was reared on the 
home farm on section 21, and acquired his funda- 
mental education in a pioneer log schoolhouse, 
which was one mile's distance from his home. It 
was furnished in a most i)rimitive manner, slab 
benches serving as seats; the windows were of 
greased paper, and the door was hung on wooden 
hinges. He remembers when the surrounding 
country was sparsely settled, and has killed man}' 
wild animals about the house. He aided his father 
greatly in developing a farm, bringing to bear 
upon his vocation all the energy of his nature, and 
helped to make the home place an estate pleasant 
to look upon. 

When attaining his twentieth year, he of whom 
we write was married to ^liss Harriet Parker, the 
date thereof being February 14, 1839. Mrs. Young 
was born in Chippewa, Wayne County, this State, 
August 21, 1820, her parents being earl>' settlers 
of that county. Her father dying when she was 
six years of age, she was taken into the home of 
her mateiTial uncle, Andrew Fisher, who made his 



home in Sugar Creek Township, this county. After 
his marriage, our subject began life for himself and 
worked out by the day and month, receiving fifty 
cents a day for his labors. 

Of the eleven children born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Young, ten grew to mature years, namely: Ilaman, 
who is a carpenter residing in Columbus, this State; 
Nancy, who married Samuel Slutz, a farmer in this 
township; William H., who also makes his home in 
this township; Franklin J., who is cultivating the 
soil in Plain Township; Alfred, Marion F., and 
Arthur, also well-to-do farmers in Pike Township; 
Wesley, who is operating Ihe Grand View Hotel at 
Huntington, Ind.; Allison, who is operating the 
home farm and Clara, Mrs. William Poorman, who 
died in 1890. 

After his marriage, George J. Young of this 
sketch, worked out foratime,as before stated, and 
then rented a farm for a number of years. He 
later purchased what is now his present home, lo- 
cating first in a log house, which was burned in 
1866. He then erected his present commodious 
frame residence, and has placed upon his estate 
those evidences of progress and prosperity which 
make of it one of the best in the township. He 
erected a large frame barn on his place in 1859, 
which gives ample room for the storage of large 
quantities of grain and the shelter of a number of 
of cattle. Mr. Young has two hundred and three 
acres of valuable land, the greater part of which 
he has cleared himself. He has a thorough under- 
standing of farming and stock-raising, and is man- 
aging his affairs with skill and success. He is an 
untiring worker, and his toil has been directed by 
shrewd judgment, close calculation, and a resolute 
will that overcame all obstacles in the pathway to 
success. 

Mr. Young, in addition to carrying on his farm, 
operated a threshing-machine for twenty-two years, 
from which branch of work he reaped a good 
income. He was one of the first to engage in that 
kind of work in this section and as a consequence 
was greatly in demand. 

IMrs. Young departed this life July 10, 1890. She 
was a lady whose personal qualities gained her a 
high place in the estimation of neigiibors and 
friends, and was a devot(;d member of the Method- 



304 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ist Episcopal Church, which body slie joined with 
her husband in March, 1850. Since tiiat time they 
have been active workers in that denomination, 
Mr. Young having held the position of Class-leader 
for over forty years. He contributed very liber- 
allv of his means toward the support of the church, 
and at the time of the erection of the new build- 
ing, aided it materially. In his political relations, 
lie now votes the Republican ticket, and has been 
Trustee of his township for the past eighteen j-ears. 
He is a valued citizen of good repute and higli 
standing, who is always ready to do all in his power 
to forward tlie welfare of his township and countv. 
He has been especially interested in educational 
mattei-s, and has lield the oHice of School Director. 
Our subject is one of the oldest residents of the 
township, with whom Time has dealt kindly, en- 
abling him to lay aside the burdens wliicli lie bore 
in former years and to settle down to the enjoyment 
of the physical comforts and social i)lc,isures which 
his adequate means and good tuste make possible 
iind agreeable. 



ONRAD IirTH. one of the most honored 
residents of Stark County, is now residing 
in!Massillon, where he carries on a thriving 
trade as a grocer. He possesses many social quali- 
ties whieli, added to his upright character, make 
him well liked wherever he is known. He is a na- 
tive of German^-, having been born near Frank- 
fort-on-the-Main, .September 28, 182;?, and is the 
son of John Iluth. who was also a native of that 
coxintry. Grandfather Huth, who was born in 
Mines, on the Rhine, was a very wealthy man, and 
u graduate of several of the best schools in Ger- 
many. He emigrated to America, and located in 
Tuscarawas County, this State, where he died at 
the advanced age of ninetj- years. 

The father of our subject was a farmer by occu- 
pation, and in 1835 came to America with his 
family, and located three .ind one-half miles south 



of Bolivar, in the above-named county, where he 
purchased a farm of eighty acres. After oper- 
ating that tract for a time, he purchased prop- 
erty near Canton, where he made his home for 
nine years, and at the end of that time returned 
to his old home in Bolivar, where he died in 1875, 
his death being the result of a fall he received when 
in his eighty-sixth year. 

Mrs. Christine Huth, the mother of our subject, 
was also born in Germany, near her husband's 
birthplace, where she was given a good practical 
education. She was a most estimable lady and 
trained her children to lead honorable and upright 
lives. She was a Catholic in religion, and died in 
1877, when eighty years of age. Of the eleven 
children of whom she was the mother, ten grew to 
mature years; of these our subject was the fourth 
in order of birth. Conrad spent his childhood in 
his native land, and in 1835 accompanied his par- 
ents to this countiT, leaving Bremen on the large 
sailing-vessel "Prince," the voyage consuming six- 
ty-two d.ays. After landing in New York, the family 
came to Ohio via Albany, Buffalo. Cleveland, 
Akron, Canton, remaining in the latter pl.ace twelve 
months, when the father located on his new farm 
in Tuscarawas County. 

The original of this sketcii rem.iiiied at home 
until reaching his fourteenth year, when he went 
to Wyandotte Count}' with a Mr. Rappee, and 
with him eng.iged in operating au hotel, and car- 
ried on a dry-goods store at Little Sandusky, near 
the W^-audottc Indians. After being thus eug.aged 
for a few years, Mr. Huth came to Canton, where 
he w.os employed in the Eagle Hotel .as Clerk. In 
1848, however, he came to this city and engaged 
to work in the Hawkes Hotel. He wiis then taken 
sick, and, returning home, remained until engaging 
in the manufacture of tubs, churns, etc. 

Soon after leaving the above firm, Mr. Huth pur- 
ch.ised the grocery business, which gradually grew 
until he became one of the most successful bus- 
iness men in the city. In 1865, however, he 
abandoned that line of trade, and again engaging 
in the hotel business, operated as "mine host" for 
two years, when he purchased the corner of Canal 
and West Main Street, which he improved, and in 
1874 put in a stock of groceries. He has been 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



305 



engaged in the grocery business since that date, 
and is now one of the oldest mcichniils in the 
city. 

November 27, 1881, Conrad Iluth and Miss Me- 
linda Ilouck, who is also a native of this county, 
were united in marriage. The lady is the daugh- 
ter of John llouck, who was born in Lancaster 
County, Pa., and on coming to this county was 
ranked among the well-to-do farmers of Tuscara- 
was Township. He held the position of School 
Director for a number of years, and died January 
8, 1875. The mother of Mrs. Iluth was Susannah 
Hoffer, and .she was also a native of the Keystone 
State. She bore her husband nine children, and 
departed this life in 1873, when sixty-five years of 
age. Her parents were botli members of the 
Lutheran Church, in which body the former was 
De.acon. 

Our subject is a loyal and law-abiding citizen, 
interested in the welfare of his county, and has 
always affiliated with the Democratic party, which 
finds in him a true supporter. He is gentlemanly 
and courteous to his customers, and by well-directed 
and incessant labor has accumulated a comfortable 
property and is conducting a good business, which 
brin<;s him in an excellent income. 



]^+^| 



IIILIP SIIKAFER, a (irominent citizen of 
Lawrence Township, now practically living 
^ r^ a retired life, resides upon his farm on 
|1\ section 27. He was born on the farm 
which is still his home, September 11, 1824. On 
the paternal side he is of German and English de- 
scent, while on the maternal side he is of Ger- 
man descent. His grandfather, Philip Sheafer, 
was born in Germany, and when a lad of seven 
summers was brought to this country. John Sheafer, 
father of our subject, was born in Bedford Coun- 
ty, Pa., in the year of 1791, and in Somerset 
County married P^va Wagner, who was there born 
in the same j-car of her husband's birth. In 1818, 
they emigrated Westward, becoming pioneer set- 



tlers of Stark County. Mr. Sheafer went to Can- 
ada, where he worked at the plow business when a 
young man, but after coming to the Buckeye State 
gave his entire time and attention to farming. 
There were no improvements upon his land, except 
a little log cabin, but he transformed it into one 
of the best farms of the community, and made it 
his home until called to his final rest in 1861. In 
early life he was a AVhig and a stanch Abolition- 
ist, lie served his township as Trustee. He was 
greatly opposed to secret societies. He read ex- 
tensively, became well informed, and was one of 
the highly respected citizens of Stark County. His 
wifesurvived him about fourteen years and passed 
away in 1875. 

Unto Mr. and JMrs. Sheafer were born eight chil- 
dren, four sons and four daughters, six of whom 
grew to mature years, but William, Mrs. Susan 
Hoover and Maria Jane are now deceased; one 
child died at the age of four years, and anotiier at 
the age of sixteen. The members of the family 
who still survive are Mrs. IMary Bowman, Philip 
and Mrs. Margaret Young. 

Our subject began his education in a log school- 
house of primitive style and conned his lessons 
upon a slab used for seats. In the usual manner 
of farmer lads the days of his boyhood and youth 
were passed. He remained under the parental 
roof and cared for his parents until their deaths. 
He was first married on the 14th of May, 1852, 
Miss Sarah E. Trevetic becoming his wife. She 
was a native of this county, and died April 2, 
1870. Four children were born of that marri.age: 
Mary Jane, now deceased; Edward II., of Colorado; 
Emma, wife of George Gott, of Ft. Madison, Iowa; 
and Nettie F., wife of William McFarland, of Kan- 
sas. Mr. Sheafer was again married, February 22, 
1872, his second union being with Mrs. Mary A. 
Groff, widow of John Groff. Their union has 
been blessed with a daughter, Eva B., who is still 
with her i)arents. 

Mr. Sheafer has spent his entire life on the old 
homestead. He now owns one hundred and sev- 
enty acres of the old farm, which is under a high 
state of cultivation and well improved. He has 
devoted his energies to farming and stock-raising 
during the greater part of his business career, but 



306 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



is now practically living a retired life, having 
rented his land. He has been industrious and en- 
terprising, and the competency which lie acquired 
thereby now enables liim to lay .aside all business 
cares. 

In early life, Mr. Sbeafer was a stanch Abolition- 
ist, and when the Republican party was formed to 
prevent the further extension of slavery, he joined 
its ranks and continued one of its supporters for 
many j'cars. He has always been a stanch temper- 
ance man, and now votes with the Prohibition 
party. He has never been an office-seeker, but has 
served as Assessor of Lawrence Township. He 
holds membership with the Methodist Episcopal 
Church of Canal Fulton, and has served in some of 
its official positions. 



^^jl-^-i^li^ 



OUIS A. VOGELGESANG. Stark County 
cj, is the home of a great number of men who 
^ are gaining a livelihood by tilling the soil, 
and whose work is being carried on systematically 
and energetiealh. The home of the gentleman 
whose name introduces these paragraphs is on sec- 
tion 30, Plain Township, where he ranks among 
the most prominent farmers and stock-raisers of 
the section. He is a native of the county, having 
been born on his present farm April 4, 1837. He 
is a son of Isaac Yogelgesang, who was born in 
German}' in 1812. 

Grandfather Isaac Vogelgesang was also born in 
the Fatherland, came to America in 1834, and 
making his waj- direct to Stark County, located in 
Canton Township, where he spent the rest of his 
life. The father of our subject, when a j'oung 
man of twenty years, determined to see what lay 
in store for him in the iS'ew World, and, on com- 
ing hither, worked in New Jersey for eighteen 
months, when, being joined b}- his father, he came 
to this county, where he was identified with its 
early residents and best citizens. After his mar- 
riage, he moved to Plain Township and made his 
home on land owned by his father-in-law, which 



was improved with a log house. There he en- 
tered upon the arduous task of developing a good 
farm, upon which he remained until 1852, when 
he moved to section 31. He was a very industri- 
ous man and fell a commendable pride in the part 
which he had taken in the opening up of new sec- 
tions, the development of the divers resources of 
the country and the advance of civilization. His 
death, which occurred October 14, 1876, at the age 
of sixty-four years, was the direct result of over- 
work. He exercised the elective franchise in be- 
half of Republican candidates, and was earnest in 
his advocac}' of whatever would add to the pros- 
perity of the people, and especially anxious to 
promote those movements which would give to 
the rising generation better opportunities than 
were enjoyed by their fathers. He was a devoted 
member of the Evangelical Church. 

The maiden name of the mother of our subject 
was Marj' A. Tream. She was also a native of 
Germanv, her birth occurring in 1821, and was 
nine years of age when her parents emigrated to 
the United States. She reared a family of nine 
children, of whom our subject was the eldest, his 
brothers and sisters being Magdaleua, Louisa, 
Jacob, Isaac J., Katie, Philip, Elizabeth and 
Emma. The wife and mother died February 8, 
1882, and. like her husband, was a devoted mem- 
ber of the Evangelical Church. Her father, Peter 
Tream, was born in German}' in 1800, and on 
taking up his residence in America, came to Stark 
County, where he improved a A'aluable estate and 
was recognized as one of the most thrifty and in- 
fluential farmers. A member of the German Re- 
formed Church in early life, he later became iden- 
tified with the Evangelical denomination, in the 
workings of which he took an active interest. 

Louis A. Vogelgesang obtained his education in 
the earlv subscription schools of this section, and 
though the advantages which he enjo\ed were not 
equal to those provided the youth of this day, they 
were sufficient to give him a practical understanding 
of important branches and fit him for the business 
transactions which laj- before him. In 1860, he 
farmed the home place on shares, and as all his 
life had been spent in agricultural pursuits, was 
successful in his undertakings. December 29, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



307 



1859, he was married to Miss Agnes D. Dahlheim, 
who was bora in Germau_y February 7, 1840, and 
came to America with lier adopted parents, John 
and Augusta Dahllieim, wiio located in the village 
of Osnaburg. 

To Mr. and Mrs. "N'ogelgesang have been born 
seven children, viz.: Louisa, Emma L., Isaac, 
Orwin, Charlie, Alfred and Edward. Our subject 
is the proprietor of one hundred and six acres of 
land, upon which he has ))laced substantial im- 
provements and lias gained a competence sufficient 
to supply every need, and their home is one 
where comfort and good cheer abound. In 1871, 
he built his present neat residence, and remodeled 
his barn in 187.5. He devotes his attention to 
mixed farming and is a man of high reputation, 
who stands well with his fellow-citizens in all re- 
spects. With his wife, he is a prominent member 
of the Evangelical Church of Canton, and they 
number their friends among the best residents of 
this section. 

Our subject is a Republican in polities, and is a 
man who has been greatly interested in school 
affairs, which has led him to be placed on the 
School Board, where he has done efficient service 
for the past three years. He is a man of pure 
character and loft}' principle, who has ever exerted 
an influence for good in his community. 



i 



■jll AMES C. PARKS. The man who chooses 
the vocation of a farmer will in all proba- 
bility be spared the excitement which be- 
_ longs to some pursuits and the stirring 
events which characterize life in the centers of 
commerce. He has, however, abundant opportuni- 
ties for the exercise of the sterling qualities of man- 
hood and the exhibition of those habits which are 
worthy the emulation of mankind. Examples of 
unremitting zeal, sincere kindliness and strict in- 
tegrity may be met with in everj' agricultural dis- 
trict of our country, and thus it affords us pleas- 



ure to embody in this volume the brief outline of 
the life of an unassuming citizen of Bethlehem 
Township who is well known and highly honored 
for his noble character and useful life. 

A native of Stark Count}', our subject was born 
May 1, 1841, to Samuel and Mary E. (Barnett) 
Parks, natives of Ireland, where they were well- 
to-do and respected citizens. The parents, upon 
emigrating from their native isle, located in 
Perry Township, where they made their home for 
a short time, and in 1842 came to Bethlehem Town- 
ship, where they were activel}' identified with its 
interests until the decease of the father, which oc- 
curred in 1866. The mother, who is still living, 
makes her home in Bolivar, this State. 

The early life of young Parks was passed in no 
unusual manner in this county, and his primary 
studies were conducted in the district school. His 
advantages for obtaining an education, however, 
were far superior to that afforded the majority of 
farmer lads and the knowledge gained in the 
common schools was supplemented b}' a two-years 
course at Hiram Institute, during which time he 
had for his teacher the late President Garfield. 
After completing his education, Mr. Parks taught 
school for seven terms in his neighborhood and 
was fairly successful in his undertaking. 

March 21, 1863, the original of this sketch en- 
listed in the Union army and joined Companj- A, 
Twelfth New York Cavalry. He participated in 
the principal battles in which the Eastern army- 
was engaged, and during his term of service was 
under several of the most noted generals of that 
struggle. He saw much hardship while a soldier, 
and received his honorable discharge August 19, 
1865, having served his country- faithfully and 
well for a period of two years. He was mustered 
into service as a private and for valiant conduct 
on different occasions was promoted from time to 
time, until at the close of hostilities he occupied 
the rank of First Lieutenant. 

When returning again to the peaceful pursuits 
of civic life, Mr. Parks came to Stark Count}' 
and resumed his occupation of agriculturist and 
often during the dull winter season found time to 
teach school and keep up his studies. The lady 
to whom he was married May 29. 1867. was Miss 



308 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Elizabeth, daughter of Michael and Catherine 

Evans, formerly of Tuscarawas County, this State, 
but who are now deceased. By their union has 
been born a family of five children, all of whom 
are at homo and who bear the respective names of 
Clarence M., Belle, Eva K., Maggie R., and 
Homer C. 

Our subject is the proprietor of one hundred 
and nineteen acres of excellent land, which his 
persistent industry and good management have 
placed under the best methods of cultivation and 
and which is further embellished with suitable 
and numerous outbuildings. He is a member of 
the Grand Army of the Republic and is favorably 
known throughout tlie county. His home is a 
pleasant and attractive one, and as an intelligent 
farmer, a worthy citizen, and a kind neighbor, Mr. 
Parks receives his due measure of respect from his 
fellow-citizens. 



\IL_^ ON. JOHN M. RTILL-VVELL. A promi- 
jf ji nent position among tlie citizens of Alli- 
isyf^ ance is held hy the gentleman whose name 
(^/ introduces this biographical notice, and 
who, during the period in which he served as 
Mayor of the city, was distinguished for his 
stuidv efforts to effect municipal reforms. A man 
of broad knowledge and superior ability, as well 
as the genial courtes3' of manner which wins and 
retains friends, he merits the high regard in which 
he is held by all who know him. 

Mr. Stillweli is now in the prime of life, hav- 
ing been born October 17, 1845, and his birth- 
place is at Auburn, Geauga County, Ohio. His 
parents, Kortenus and Wait (Stafford) Stillweli, 
were natives respectively of Rhode Island and 
New York, and the father, who was a farmer by 
occupation, came AVest to Ohio at an early day, 
locating in Geauga County. After engaging in 
farming pursuits there for many years and accu- 
mulating a competencj', he retired from active 
labors and came to Stark County in 1872, dying 



here nine years afterward. His wife survived 
him ten j'ears, her death occurring in June, 1891. 

Tlie parental family consisted of five sons and 
one daughter, and four members of the familj' are 
still living. Joshua A. enlisted during the late 
war as a member of Company B, Second Ohio 
Cavalry, and was appointed Orderly-Sergeant, in 
which capacity he was serving when he was fatally 
wounded in the battle of Richmond, Ky. James 
died of typhoid fever during the war. Our sub- 
ject, who was the youngest in order of birth, was 
reared to manhood on his father's farm in Geauga 
County, and was the recipient of an excellent 
education in tlie public schools of the district. 
When eighteen years old, he was graduated from 
Chagrin Falls Academy, and two years afterward 
finished the course in Eastman's Business College. 

His literary education completed, Mr. Stillweli 
learned the trade of a machinist, and followed 
that occupation successfully until about 1881. 
Then, accepting the position of a salesman in a 
sewing-machine establishment, he remained in that 
connection for a time, and later conducted a thriv- 
ing boot and shoe business. In his various con- 
nections, he gained the confidence of .all who 
knew him by his reliable dealings and scrupulous 
integrity. In 1887, he was elected Justice of the 
Peace, which office he filled satisfactorily for three 
J'ears, and until he was elected to the highest posi- 
tion within the gift of his fellow-townsmen — that 
of Mayor. His official career is fresh in the minds 
of the people of Stark County, and it is needless 
to dwell in detail upon the various measures in- 
troduced hy him which resulted in the promotion 
of the best interests of the community. In addi- 
tion to the above-mentioned positions, he has 
served as a member of the City Council one term, 
and was Township Clerk for three j-ears, besides 
holding other local offices of trust. 

In 1867, Mr. Stillweli was united in marriage 
with Miss Madora A. Niece, and they are the par- 
ents of one child, Mark. In iiis social connections, 
Mr. Stilltvell is a member of the Masonic frater- 
nity, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and 
the Knights of Pj'thias, iiaving served officially in 
these several organizations. He has been a Rep- 
resentative of the Grand Lodge for the Masonic 




/ 




J'.^. 




PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



311 



order and h:is the honor of the representation of 
the Knights of Pythias for the ensuing term 
(1892). He is actively identified with tlie Home 
Loan Mutual Association, one of the most flour- 
isiiing enterprises of Alliance, and is at present 
serving in the capacit3' of Secretary. In fact, it 
maj' be said of him that no measure he proposes, 
having for its object tlie direct or indirect 
promotion of the welfare of the cit)', fails to 
secure his heart^' co-operation and enthusiastic 
support; he is tlierefore justly entitled to con- 
sideration among the foremost citizens of Alli- 
ance, and an important factor in its growtli. 



\^^ 



ACOB FREDRICK HESS. Germany has 
furnished the Buckeye State witli many es- 
timable citizens, but she has contributed 
none more worthy of mention, or whose 
career lias been such a complete success in every 
way, tlian the subject of tiiis sketch. He has in- 
lierited all the tlirift, energy and perseverance of 
his Teutonic ancestors as well as their great hon- 
esty and opeulieartedness. He is at present senior 
member of the firm of Hess, Snj'de;' tt Co., manu- 
facturers, and is one of the far-seeing, practical 
business men of Massillon. He was born in Kan- 
dern, Baden, (Termany, on the 28tli of August, 
1834, anvl remained in his native country until 
about twelve years of age, when lie was brougiit 
to America by liis parents. 

His father, .Jacob F. Hess, who was also a native 
of the Old Country, was a miner by occui)ation and 
was employed in tlie iron mines of (Termany for 
many 3-ears. The numerous advantages to be de- 
rived from a residence in the United States, and 
particularly in Ohio, where many of his country- 
men had made homes, were brought to his notice, 
and he decided to trust himself to Neptune's ten- 
der mercies and seek a home for himself in the 
New World. In 1846, he came with his family to 
America and made his way to Ohio, where he set- 
tied in Mnssilloii. He entered the coal mines, and 



this was his principal occupation until his death 
in 1853. He was married in his native country 
to Miss Catherine Bomerlin, a native of Baden, 
and she was his faithful helpmate and counselor 
until his death. She received her final summons 
in Massillon in 1884. Both parents were of the 
good old German Protestant stock, and were 
classed among the representative citizens of Stark 
County. Their entire familj' of five children grew 
to mature years, and three are now living. The 
children were as follows: Christine (who became 
Mrs. Snyder) died near Albion, Calhoun County, 
Mich.; Catherine died in Massillon; J. F., our sub- 
ject; Philip, a skilled mechanic, in the employ of 
Hess, Snyder & Co., and Leonard, a partner in the 
firm of Hess, Snyder & Co. 

Our subject's boyhood days, until nearly twelve 
years of age, were passed amid the beautiful scen- 
eiy of the River Rhine, and his playmates were of 
his own nativity. Li the spring of 1846, the fam- 
ily went to Havre de Grace by way of Brazil and 
Paris, and made the journey in a large wagon, or 
what was termed in the United States in early 
da3's a "prairie schooner," drawn by four horses. 
They took passage at Havre de Grace on the 
steamer "South Carolina," and fortj'-nine days 
later landed at New York. They then came up 
the Hudson River to Albany, where they took the 
Erie to Buffalo, thence by steamer to Cleveland 
and by canal to Massillon. 

The little schooling our subject received had 
been in the German language, and after reaching 
this country he picked up the English language 
without an instructor. All the knowledge he re- 
ceived in this way was by application and oljser- 
vation, but being naturally very apt and studious 
he became unusually well posted on all subjects. 
Almost as soon as he reached Massillon, he en- 
tered the coal mines and there worked for six 
years, after which he was apprenticed to learn the 
tinsmith trade with Patridge & Co., with whom he 
remained one year, then went with James JacolM', 
remaining with him from 1852 to 1857. In the 
spring of the latter year, he started for California 
by way of the Isthmus, and after reaching San 
Francisco remained there a short time engaged in 
his trade in order to rc|)lenish his purse, With 



312 



i'ORTRAlT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



two otbers, he then went North to the Cisque 
Mountains. Oregon, where he began prospecting 
and mining in placer diggings for over three yeai-s. 
in which he met with considerable success. He 
lived in regular miner's style, and when not en- 
gjiged in mining was hunting wild animals that 
everywhere abounded. Indians were frequently 
seen but they were very peaceable and friendly, 
and he visited several Indian camps along the 
coast. While engaged in mining, our subject also 
rau a blacksmith shop in connection, and minei-s 
would come from four to six miles to have their 
tools sharpened. Thev were at times obliged to 
go quite a distance for provisions and supplies. 
At one time, when it w.as Mr. Hess' turn to go for 
provisions, the snow was ten feet deep and the 
place where he w:is to get his supplies was eight 
miles away. Not having any snow shoes, he made 
a pair from hoops taken from a tub, covered them 
with canvas and had very little trouble in mak- 
ing the trip. Newspapers were seldom seen in 
those days, but when they were received were 
read and re-re.nd many times. He paid $1 a paper 
for two years when they could be bought for fifty 
cents apiece. 

In the fall of ISliO. he returned to Massillon. 
Ohio, stopping on the w.iy a short time at ^lexico 
and Aspinwall. Panama. After reaching Massil- 
lon, Mr. Hess followed his trade, and in partner- 
ship with a Mr. Smith, began dealing in stoves, 
etc.. on South Erie .Street. This partnership Lasted 
about three years, when Mr. Hess started in busi- 
ness for himself on North Erie Street, and later 
his brother Leonard became his partner, and they 
conducted the business under the firm name of .1. 
F. Hess A- Brother from 1866 to 1882. Tiiey ad- 
ded plumbing and gas fitting, and in a few months 
were doing the most extensive business of any 
firm in the city. They built the brick block Nos. 
9 and 11, and Mr. Hess now owns that. They 
also started a stove foundry at the corner of Erie 
and North Streets, and continued both enter- 
prises until 1882. when they sold their tin store to 
Snyder it^ Schworm. and their plumbing and gas 
fitting department to Knapp iV- Dillon. In 1882, 
they formed a partnoi-ship with Snyder Bros, 
under the name of Hess, Snvder A- Co.. and Ihev 



now carry on the manufacture of hot air furnaces, 
cook and heating stoves, as well as a machine and 
repair shop. They have met with remarkable suc- 
cess and have the largest enterprise of the kind in 
^Massillon. Aside from this, Mr. Hess is the owner 
of considerable I eal estate in the city, and has a 
very comfortable and ])leasant home on Oak Hill, 
where he owns several acres and has a lx\iutiful 
yard and drive. 

Mr. Hess married, in 1862. Miss Catherine Stahl. 
a native of Navarre, Ohio, and the daughter of 
Frederick Stahl. The following children have 
been born to this union: Ida. now Mi's. Frank 
Snyder, resides in M.issillon; Frank resides in Mas- 
siilon and is a salesman for Hess. Snyder iVr Co.: 
Eiiima. Albert, Anna, Dora and Maude, the five 
last named at home. All the children have had 
the best school advantages Massillon aflfords. and 
are bright and quick at learning. Mr. and Mi-s. 
Hess are members of St..Iohn"s Evangelical Church 
and are lilieral supporters of the same. Mr. Hess 
has always been a stanch Republican and believes 
in protection for American citizens. His fii-st vote 
was for John C. Fremont. 



T. KEITH. M. D.. a leading physician of 
Alliance, connected with the Electric Sani- 
tarium, is a native of Southern Illinois, 
born Octolier 10. 1844. His father. Thomas 
II. Keith, who w.as born in Virginia, emigrated to 
Illinois, and thence to Ohio, locating in Stark 
County. He followed merchandising and farming 
as a means of livelihood. He now resides with 
our subject, in his eighty-seventh year. Three 
sons and two daughtei-s of the family .are yet liv- 
ing. Dr. Price, who w.as a graduate of the New York 
Medical College, died in Columbiana County. Ohio. 
.Stephen: Dr. S. T.: John 11.: Mi-s. Inkefer. of 
Cleveland. Ohio; and Mi-s. Ileston. of Woodbine. 
Kan., are still living. 

Our subject spent the greater part of his lH)y- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



313 



hood days ii|K)n a farm in Cohunbiaua Coiintv. 
Obio. and w:is educated in the public schools of 
Hanover. Ou the breaking out of the war. when 
only seventeen years of Age, he enlisted in Cohi- 
paiiy F, Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, and served 
throuirhout the struggle, lie pjirticipated in the 
battles of Lookout Mountain. Mission Ridge. Re- 
saca. the Atlanta campaign, and was with Sherman 
on the celebrated march to the sea. He endured 
many hardships, but escaped injury, and was never 
captured. When the war was over, he received his 
discharge in Columbus, in 18(55. 

Returning home, the Doctor embarked in the 
drug business in Ilanoverton. and while thus en- 
gaged began reading medicine. He was graduated 
from the medical department of the State Univer- 
sity, in Ann Arbor. Mich., in 1870. After a short 
time he went to Bloomington. III., where he was 
located for about two yeai"s. The scene of his la- 
bors was then changed to North Jackson, Ohio. and 
in 1880 he came to Alliance, where he has since 
engaged in practice. He makes a specialty of the 
treatment of chronic diseases with electricity and 
h.TS been very successful. He established what is 
known as the Electric Sanitarium, his nephew. 
Charles S. Keith, being the manager of the institu- 
tion. The Doctor h:is built up a large practice, 
and makes a specialty of the diseases of women 
and children, rheumatism, spinal diseases, kidney 
and liver trouble and paralysis. He also makes a 
s|>ecialty of removing tumors by electricity, and 
h.is made three wonderful cures. One patient, a 
p.aralytic. was cured in ten weeks. When he came 
to the Sanitarium, it took two men to handle him, 
and on leaving he could walk, climb or jump as 
well .IS an}- one. From all over the country he 
has received testimonials of the highest praise, in- 
cluding the following: 

Pittsburgh. Pa.. October 3n. I8!tl. 
To whom it may concern: 

This is to certify that I. the undei'signed. have re- 
cently received about one month's treatment bv 
Dr. Keith at his Sanitarium with most gratifying 
results. My affliction consisted of nervous and 
spinal derangement of a chronic nature, including 
a serious curvature of the spine. My spine is now 
straight and perfectly normal, having remained ^o 
to this d.ite, which is three weeks from the time of 



my last treatment. My general health has been 
greatly improved, and I feel that Dr. Keith's treat- 
ment has started me on the road to the acquisi- 
tion of that inestimable blessing, a sound body. 
Langimge cannot exi)ress my gratitude. I most 
cheerfully tender this testimonial, with the earnest 
hope that it may influence many others among the 
atHicted to avail themselves of the rare skill and 
treatment offered at the Electric Sanitarium. 

Florkxce Boxsall. 
.\lliance, Ohio, November 2, 1891. 
Being an uncle to the writer of the above letter 
and she having staid at m\- house during the time 
in which she was taking the electric treatment 
spoken of and so under inj- constant observation, 
I am fully able to corroborate all she says in re- 
gard to what the treatment has done for her. The 
rapidity and thoroughness of its effects have been 
truly wonderful. 

M. C. Pkxxock, 
President of the Alliance Banking Com pan v, and 
hardware dealer. 

In 186.5. Dr. Keith married Miss Alice Boss, and 
unto them was born a son, now deceased. He was 
again married, in 1889, his second union being with 
Miss Jennie Fisher, of Canton. Ohio. The Doctor 
is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the 
Grand Army of the Republic. 



I^ON. SA:\irEL C. BOWJIAN. It can not 
if )1; be expected in a work of this kind, where 
^■k^' but brief biographical sketches of promi- 
i^); neut citizens of the county are mentioned, 
that_we cau^^^ustice to this much-esteemed and 
representative gentleman. And yet, he has been 
identified with the county so long, h.is aided so in 
its development, and his name is so familiar to all, 
that it is only just to dwell upon his career, not as 
emj)ty words of praise, but the plain statement of 
a still plainer truth. He was born in Franklin 
County, Pa., near Chambersbnrgh. on the oth of 
September, 1822, and his father and grandfather 
were natives of the Keystone .State also. The lat- 
ter, .\braham Bowman, tii-st saw the light in the 
citv of "Brothcrlv Love." and aftoi- reaching ma- 



314 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ture yeare followed agricultural pui-suits in Leb- 
anon Couulv, liiat State. His ancestors came 
originally from Badeu, about 1725, and settled in 
Philadelphia, where they were among the repre- 
sentative families. 

Aliraham Bowman. Jr., the father of our sul)- 
ject, was born in Lebanon County, and was very 
early initiated into the duties of farm life. He 
married and followed agricultural pursuits in 
Franklin County until the j-ear 1829, and then 
brought his wife and family by wagon and team 
to this State, settling one mile north from Mas- 
sillon. He made many improvements in his place, 
was industrious and enterprising, and became the 
owner of three hundred acres of land. His death 
occurred in 1853. hi politics, he was a Whig. 
His second marriage was to Miss Christina Krider, 
a native of Franklin County, Pa., and the daugh- 
ter of John Krider, who was also born in Pennsyl- 
vania. Mr. Krider was a farmer, but in addi- 
tion was a United Brethren preacher, and carried 
on his ministerial duties in his native Stale until 
his death. His father. Rev. Martin Krider, was 
also a minister in that church and assisted in or- 
ganizing the conference. Mrs. Bowman died in 
1868. Mr. Bowman's first marriage resulted in the 
birth of six children, all of whom are deceased, 
and to his second marriage were born ten chil- 
dren, eight of whom are living. One son, Adam, 
was in the One Hundred and Fourth Regiment 
during the Civil "War, was captured and died in 
AndersonviUe. Isaac was Sergeant of the Twen- 
ty-third Indiana Battery and served through the 
entire war. He is now deceased. Another son. 
Rev. Martin Bowman, was Chaplain in an Iowa 
regiment, and now resides at Miller, Dak. 

Hon. Samuel C. Bowman, the fourth in order of 
birth of the children born to his father's second 
marriage, remained in his native State until seven 
jears of age, and in 1829 came with his parents to 
Stark County, Ohio. He divided his time in youth 
between assisting on the farm and in attending 
the schools taught in the log school house of those 
days. Later, he supplemented this education by 
a course in Edenburg Academy and Hayesville 
Academy, also in a select school in Massillon. When 
twent}-one years of age, or in 1843 and 1844, he 



engaged in teaching school in his township and 
taught with mucli success for ten years, princii)ally 
during the winter season, but with an occasional 
summer school. In 1852, he located in Massillon, 
clerked for some time, and then l>ought his em- 
ployer out. After this, he went in partnershiii 
with I. N. Doxsee in the tin business on Erie 
Street, and this firm continued for four years. Mr. 
Bowman was then in partnership with a Mr. Tay- 
lor in the milling business, under the firm name 
of Taylor it Bowman, and later returned to the 
hardware business. In ^lay, 1864, he enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio Na- 
tional Guards, and was mustered in as .Second 
Lieutenant of Company A, and served in Colum- 
bus for the most part. He was mustered out iu 
September of the same year. 

Returning to his home, lie resumed milling, and 
later embarked in the hardware businessagain, but 
in the fall of 1869 he was elected to represent 
Stark County in the State Legislature. So ably 
and satisfactorily did he fill this honorable position 
that he was re-elected in 1871, serving two terms. 
The last two years he was Chairman of the Com- 
mittee on Geology. IMines and Mining, also on other 
committees. In 1872, he cast his vote for John 
Sherman. In politics, he is an ardent admirer of 
the principles of the Republican party, and has 
been a delegate to county and State conventions. 
He was a member of the State Republicau Central 
Committee from this district. Our subject con- 
tinued in the hardware business until 1880, when 
he closed out, and the same year was elected a 
member of the State Board of Equalization. From 
1884 until 1886, he held the position of Mayor, 
and his administration was marked by the many 
necessary improvements made in the city. He has 
also been a member of the Council at difterent 
times and was President for some time. He is at 
present Justice of the Peace, has been Township 
Trustee for ten years, and was a member of the 
School Board for one term. He is prominent in 
all good work and is one of the representative 
men of the county. 

On the 4th of January, 1849, he was married to 
Miss Elizabeth Sour, a n.itive of Franklin Town- 
ship, Summit County, Ohio (then Stark County), 



PORTRAIT A^'D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



315 



and tlie daughter of Jacob Sour, a fanner and 
early settler of that county. One child has been 
the result of this union. Ida, who was graduated in 
Massillon. and is now Mrs. Otto Uhlendorff. Mi: 
Bowman has shown his appreciation of secret or- 
ganizations by becoming a member of the Masonic 
fraternity in 1855. He is a Knight Templar in 
that order, and has been Past Eminent Commander 
six different times. 



m>^^r<t 



, HILIP KRLSHER. This name will be rec- 
ognized bj- our readers throughout the 
county as one of its former prominent 
citizens, who was born in Massillon, June 
16, 1838. During his life, he devoted his time 
and attention to cultivating the soil, and de- 
rived a good income from his operations, and in 
nianj- ways aided in the development and upbuild- 
ing of Perry Township. 

Peter and Catherine Krisher, the parents of our 
subject, were born in German}% and were early 
settlers in this section. J'hilip of this sketch, when 
reaching mature years, learned the trade of a 
molder, whicii he followed for some time, working 
for a number of years in the shops of Russell it 
Co. His education, which w.is very limited, was 
obtained in the primitive schools, but never- 
theless fitted him to take charge of a home and 
the oversight of a family. March 4, 1861, he was 
married to Miss Catherine Gaharas, who was born 
January 2. 1843. in Germany, and was a daughter 
of Peter and Catherine GJaharas, both of whom 
were also natives of the Fatherland, and are now 
deceased. When in her eighth year, Mrs. Krisher 
emigrated to .\meriea with her parents, who 
located in Massillon, where the father, who fol- 
lowed liis trade of a stone-mason, spent tlie re- 
mainder of his life. 

Of the fourteen children born to our subject 
and his wife, we m.ike the following mention: 
Clara (now IMis. Bordner), George, Mary, Philip, 
William, Cliarles, Cora. Frank, Reuben, Edward 



Alice, Ida, Herbert and Earl. In the spring of 1874, 
Jlr. Krisher located with his family upon the farm 
where his widow now resides, and where his de- 
cease occurred February 10, 1886. As an agri- 
culturist, he occupied a prominent place as one 
who understood his calling and pursued it with 
energy. Among his fellow-citizens, he bore the 
reputation of an industrious and honest man, 
whose .association with his neighboi"S was on a foot- 
ing of kindness and good-will, .and who, in his 
domestic relations, was affectionate and con- 
siderate. 

He of whom we write in his religious affairs was 
a devoted member of the Evangelical Church. 
Sociall}', he was a member of the Ancient Order of 
United Workmen, in which body he was an ac- 
tive worker. In politics, he cast his vote with 
the Republican party, and as a gentlemen who was 
interested in the growth of his township, his ex- 
ample m.ay well be emulated by the 3'ounger gen- 
eration. Mrs. Krisher is not only a capable house- 
wife, but possesses a Christian character, being a 
consistent member of the Evangelical Church. 
Since the death of her husband, she has, with the 
aid of her sons, carried on the operations of her 
farm, in which she takes great interest. The estate 
Includes one hundred acres, upon which is built a 
neat and tasteful residence, which is not only at- 
tractive in its external appearance, but is fur- 
nished in a m.anner in keeping witli the circum- 
stances and tastes of its owner. 



iIt_^ENRY S. FOLTZ. The hroad acres and 
|r)|, pleasant home of which Mr. Foltz is the 
J^^^ proprietor, and which are located in scc- 
((^ tion 19, Jackson Townshi[), arc among its 
most pleasing features, and are a standing monu- 
ment to his thrift, industry and perseverance. He 
is an excellent flnantier, having good judgment 
and fine business ability, as liis property attests, 
and 111 the enjoyment of a good income and 
surrounded liv liis familv, he (iiids that life is in- 



316 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



deed worth living. A native of Blair County, 
Pa., he was born March 9. 1849. a son of Adam 
Foltz, a native of Hcssc-Darnistadt. Germany. 
The latter came to America at the age of fourteen 
years with his parents, and for some time was a 
resident of Franklin County, Pa., but in Blair 
County of that State he espoused Miss Margaret 
Stone, her birth having occurred in Bedford 
County, Pa. From the time of their marriage 
until their respecti\'e deaths, at the age of sixtv- 
one and forty-four years, they were residents of 
Blair County, where they reared a family of four 
sons and three dauglitei-s, onh- two members of 
which famil3" are now living: the subject of this 
sketch and- his sister Sarah, the wife of Is.aac Kurtz, 
of Osborne County, Kan. 

Henry S. Foltz was the third son and sixth 
child born to his parents, and until he was twenty- 
one years of age he resided in his native county, 
where he was given the advant.ages of the com- 
mon schools. He became familiar with the de- 
tails of agriculture on his father's farm, and, after 
coming to Ohio, followed that occupation as an 
employe of others. He was married in Stark 
County, Ohio. Decemlwr 24, 1878, to Miss Ellen 
Sprankel, the daughter of Henry and Susanna 
(Howenstein) Sprankel, notice of whom is given 
in the sketch of E. J. Sprankel. Mrs. Foltz was 
born on the farm on which she is now residing, 
although Mr. Foltz first located after his marri.age 
in section 19, where he successfully tilled the soil 
until 1888, when he moved to where he now re- 
sides. His estate embraces one hundi-ed and 
eighty acres of well-tilled and fertile land, on 
which he is giving hi* attention to general farm- 
ing and stock-raising. He h.as not been exempt 
from the hardships of life, for he started to make 
his own way in the world with no means whatever, 
but he has never allowed disappointment or dis- 
couragement to cloud his hopes of ultimate suc- 
cess, and this h.as. without doubt, been a greater 
factor in his success in life. 

He is a stanch Republican in politics, and is a 
well-posted and intelligent man, who has profited 
by the wide-spread spirit of journalism. His record 
is one of more than ususil interest, owing to the fact 
that he had to make his own wavin the world, and 



is well worthy of emulation by young men who 
have to fight life's b.attles unaided. He is a sup- 
porter of the cause of education, and is giving his 
children all the advantages that lie within his 
power. To himself and wife three sons and three 
daughters have been lx>rn: Katie, Edith. Amanda, 
and Harrv living. and Henrv and Homer deceased. 



? OHN I.. .\RXOLD. The vocation of an un- 
dertaker is essentially a very delicate one 
and it involves for its successful prosecution 
peculiarly important qualifications, which 
but comparatively few individuals possess; and it 
is only by long experience, as well as natural ai)ti- 
tude, that a man is able to discharge his duty in 
that relation to the entire and unqualified satisfac- 
tion of those most deeply interested. Among the 
prominent houses engaged in this line of business, 
.as well .IS the retail and wholesale furniture busi- 
ness, is that of .lohn L. Arnold. This gentleman was 
born in Bavaria, Germany, in April, 1865, and his 
boyhood days were passed in his native countrv, 
where he received a common-school and col- 
legiate education, working during the day and at- 
tending night School until sixteen years of .age. 
His father was a furniture manufacturer in Bava- 
ria and our subject remained under the parental 
roof and assisted his father in the factiny until 
seventeen years of age. 

At that age. our subject decided that America 
was the land of promise for a struggling and am- 
bitious j-oung man, and he subsequently crossed 
the ocean to the I'nited States. Landing in Xew 
York City, he went from there to Cincinnati, 
where he passed one winter. In the following 
spring, he went to Canal Dover and there worked 
at the cabinet-maker's trade for three years, wlien 
he formed a partnership with H. Worm, under the 
firm name of Worm cVr Arnold, and embarked in 
the retail furniture business in Zanesville, Ohio. 
Later, he sold out to his partner, and in the spring 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ai; 



of 1888 came to Canton, where he purchased the 
stock of George and Frank Sharer and continued 
the business at the same stand, No. 34 North 
Market Street, and then removed to his present 
location, No. 42 North Market Street. The store- 
house is a fine five-story brick building, 24x130 
feet, built especially' for the furniture business, the 
whole structure from basement to garret being 
occupied by Mr. Arnold. His stock is large and 
varied, consisting of the latest and most fashiona- 
ble bedroom suits, parlor suits, and, in fact, every- 
thing kept in a first-class furniture store. He has a 
large trade and is popular with his customers, em- 
ploying five clerks and seven men in the business. 
He keeps a fine stock of caskets of all sizes and 
make, and takes charge of all the details of funerals 
entrusted to his care, supplying carriages and 
equipments, etc. 

He selected his life companion in the person of 
Miss Flora Gentz, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, and 
their nuptials were celebrated in the year 1886. 
Three interesting children, two sons and one 
daughter, have been born to this union. Mr. Ar- 
nold is a member of the Young Men's Business 
Association and is one of the foremost men of the 
county. He is a prominent Mason, member of 
Eagle Lodge, Canton Chapter, Canton Command- 
ery, K. T. He is also a member of the Knights of 
Pythias and is very active in social circles. He 
has a commodious and comfortable residence at 
No. 57 Newton Street, and is well fixed in life. 
He began business with very limited means, and 
by his industry and perseverance has been success- 
ful in all his undertaking!,. 



e-^Hi-^i 



YRUS YOUNG was one of the most prom- 
inent farmers of Stark County, where he 
S])ent his entire life. He was born on a farm 
on section 36, .lacksoii Township, November lo, 
1834, and was a son of Adam and Christina 
(Kirk) Young, both of whom were natives of 
the Keystone State, and became earlv settlers 



of Stark Countj"^, Ohio. When our subject was 
about five years of age, his parents removed 
from .Jackson to Lawrence Township, where he was 
reared and educated. 

After attaining to mature years, Mv. Young of 
this sketch married Margaret Shcafer, who was 
born in Lawrence Township, December 1, 1836, 
and is of German descent. Her grandfather, 
Philip Sheafer, was born in German}', and came to 
America when seven years of age. Her father, 
John Sheafer, was born in Bedford County, Pa., in 
1793, and came to Stark County, Ohio, in 1818, 
locating on section 27, Lawrence Township. He 
was a plow-maker, and manufactured the old plows 
with the wooden mold-board. Before coming to 
the West, he was married in Somerset County, Pa., 
to Eva AV.agner, who was born in that county in 
1791. Her father was also of German birth. Mr. 
and Mrs. Sheafer continued to reside upon the 
farm which he improved in this county until his 
death, which occurred in 1861. He was a Whig in 
politics, and served his township as Trustee. His 
wife passed awaj' in 1875. The}- were highly re- 
spected people and had a wide circle of friends 
and acquaintances in this community. Their fam- 
ily numbered eight children, four sons and four 
daughters. One child died at the age of four j'ears 
and another at sixteen years, while the remaining 
six grew to manhood and womanhood, but William 
and Susan are now deceased. The living are Mrs. 
Mary Bowman; Philip; Mrs. Margaret Young; and 
Maria Jane. 

Margaret Sheafer spent the days of her maiden- 
hood in Lawrence Township, and remained under 
the parental roof until the 8tli of June, 1848, 
when she gave her hand in marriage to Mr. Young. 
Six sons and four daughters were born of tlieu' 
union, and, with one exception, all grew to mature 
3'ears: Letitia J. is now the wife of J. W. Myers, 
of Canal Fulton; William S. resides in Dakota; 
Clement R. died in 1859; Frances E. is the wife of 
Philip Marganthaler, of Massillon; Mary JM. is the 
wife of G. W. Leonard, of Cleveland; Charles F. 
wedded Isabella M. Walter; A. Lincoln is living 
in Greenville, Ohio; Cj'rus O. resides in Lawrence 
Township; Philip is married and makes his liome 
with liis motliei'; and A'iolet M. is the wife of Loren 



318 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



C. Wyse, of Canton. Mr;;. Voiui": also lias twenty- 
two grandchildren. 

After his marriage, Mi'- Young continued to run 
a threshing-machine in this county for eight years. 
He then purchased a tract of land and devoted 
his attention to farming and stock-raising, becom- 
ing one of the prominent agriculturists of the 
community. He was a public-spirited and pro- 
gressive citizen, and was widely and favorably 
known in his native county. In politics, he was a 
stanch Prohibitionist during the last six years of 
his life and took an active part in the upbuilding 
and promotion of that party. His death occurred 
on April, 10, 1881, and his loss was mourned 
by many friends as well as by his immediate 
famil}'. Mrs. Young, a most estimable lady, still 
resides on the old homestead, and her fine farm is 
one of the best in the county. 



rnmrn^^^'^^ 



<Cf^DWARD J. MEYER, proprietor of the 
|fe) Mej'cr's Lakeside Horse Farm, which is 
/^' — ^ beautifully located in the suburbs of Can- 
ton, two miles from the Court House, is a repre- 
sentative of one of the earliest families of .Stark 
Count}'. His entire life has here been passed, he hav- 
ing been born in this county, April 9, 1858. The 
great-grandfather, Francis Meyer, was a Colonel 
under Napoleon, and served in a number of wars 
under that famous general. He was on the Rus- 
sian expedition, during which he saw the burning 
of Moscow, and was commander of a division of 
troops at the battle of Waterloo. 

Andrew Meyer, the grandfather of our subject, 
was born in the ancient city of Bonn, on the 
Rhine, and at an early age entered the Austrian 
service and fought against the Turks. He was 
also in the French arm}' for some time. He came 
to America in the latter part of the eighteenth 
century and settled in Baltimore, Md., where he 
worked as a brass raolder and burnisher for the 
Government, during the early part of the War of 
1812. He was also an officer in tiiat war. He 



commanded troops at the battle of Bladenburg, 
and was one of the few who stood his ground in 
tliat disastrous engagement. For his bravery his 
General presented him with a fine rifle, which was 
one of his highly prized jiosscssions through life. 
He was also at the bombaidment of Baltimore. He 
came to Stark Count}' in 1817, and purchased of 
Bazelee Wells twenty-two hundred acres of land, 
lying to the west and north of Canton and partly 
within the city limits, and for which he paid 111 
per acre. He erected a house in the timber and 
there resided until 1822, when he began tlie erec- 
tion of the large brick residence now occupied by 
our subject. The brick for this house was made 
on the farm, and the wood for finishing was hauled 
by wagon over the mountains from Baltimore. 
Md., and the flooring from SteubenviUe, C)hio. 
That residence in those days was considered a 
great curiosity, and people came from miles around 
to see it. Mr. Meyer devoted his life to superin- 
tending the clearing and developing his land. He 
was a man of large means and contributed liber- 
ally to everything pertaining to the upbuilding 
and promotion of the county's best interests. 
Indians were numerous when he settled here, and 
the squaws often came to his house to beg milk 
and bread for their papooses. Deer were plentiful 
and he killed many of them. His death occurred 
in Stark Count} in 184S. at the age of eighty- 
eight ye.nrs. 
( Joseph Meyer, tlie father of our subject, was 
1 born and reared in Stark County, and educated at 
Emmitsburg College, of Maryland. He devoted 
his entire life to agricultural pursuits. He owned 
[ fifteen hundred acres of land, which was operated 
I under his personal supervision, and he raised large 
quantities of grain and much stock, including 
some very fine horses. He was a man of e.xcellent 
business ability, was very progressive in his busi- 
ness ideas, and made his farm one of the best in 
Ohio. He also did much for the development and 
improvement of the county. He and the other 
heirs to his father's large farm gave twenty acres 
of land in the corporate limits of Canton for the 
site of the present Dueber-Hampden Watch Manu- 
facturing Company, a mammotli establishment em- 
ploying eleven hundred hands. Mr. Meyer mar- 



^.=%. w— *^^^^:^^'f^% ^ ^ 




RE5. OF tD.J.MElYER CANTO N , STAR K CO.^OH 1 0. 




RESIDENCE OF FREDERICK BECk,5EC.34.,TUSCA RAWAS TP,5TARK CO.,0. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



321 



ried Catherine A. Meyer, of Baltimore, Md., and 
unto them were born five children: Elizabeth L., 
Edward J., Catlierine C, George W. and Henry C. 
The father died at tlie age of fifty-six years, but 
the mother is still living and makes her home in 
Canton. 

Edward J. Meyer, whose name heads this sketch, 
attended college in Louisville, and afterward spent 
tliree years in Emmitsburg College, where his 
fatlier was educated. Subsequently, he was grad- 
uated from Duff's Commercial College, of Pitts- 
burg, in 187(;. He tiien settled on a farm on the 
Fulton road, west of Canton, where he resided three 
years, when he purchased the Meyer Lake prop- 
erty. This lake is two miles northwest of ('anton 
and is named in lionor of his grandfather. When 
our subject purciuased the lake, it was almost a stag- 
nant pool, but he cleared and has finely improved it. 
He built the Lakeview Hotel and transformed the 
place into an elegant summer resort. Largely 
through his instrumentality, tlie electric streetcars 
were built from the city to this place, and thous- 
ands of people now go there almost daily for sport 
and recreation. Mr. Meyer continued to have 
charge of the summer resort for four years and 
then sold out. 

In December, 1881, he married Helen C. Patton, 
a native o' Canton, and unto them has been born 
a son, Joseph E., who is now attending school in 
Cleveland, Ohio. Their home is a palatial resi- 
dence, one of the finest in the State. In politics, 
GUI' subject is a Democrat. 

In 1883, Mr. Meyer bought his present finely 
improved farm of three hundred acres from his 
brother, and began the breeding of fast horses. In 
1881), the large training barn was built. It was 
designed by Mr. Meyer, and is said to be the finest 
of its kind in the United States. He has a covered 
track running around the barn, a tenth of a 
mile in extent, and inside for training in the 
winter and bad weather, and a half-mile track 
in the rear of the barn. Upon the place are 
many finely-bred horses, including "Black Cloud," 
the fastest Mambrino stallion in the world, with 
a record of 2:1 7|. This horse was purchased 
and taken from Kentuek3' to Michigan by Gen. 
Custer, and after the death of the General, he was 



the object of prolonged litigation. He made his 
record of 2:17| in the great champion stallion race 
in Chicago, in 1882. Another notable horse owned 
by !Mr. Meyer is " Bud Crooke," a Unestallion, with 
a pacing record of 2:18;}:. He is the fastest pacing 
entire son of " George Wilkes," and the third fastest 
entire son in the world. Another stallion, with a 
running record of 1 :44^, is '• AVanba." He was bred 
by Charles W. Bradley, of Richmond, Ky. Mr. Meyer 
also has a number of younger horses of great 
promise, among whicli are " Glassville" and" Pink- 
mink," the latter a fieautiful seal-brown, with a 
three-year record of 2:40, son of the famous " Black 
Cloud." He also has upon his farm the great-great- 
granddaughter of the horse his grandfather rode 
to Stark County from Baltimore, Md., in 1817. 
The horses have been kept and bred on the farm ever 
since, and are very high-s|)irited and fine animals. 
The training barn is undoubtedly one of the best, 
if not the best, in the country. There is nothing 
lacking, and in some departments the barn is almost 
palatial. Mr. Meyer is unexcelled as a judge of 
horses, and is a true lover of the noble steed. He 
is a young and wealthy citizen of Stark County, 
very popular, and his success has been well de- 
served. He has acquired much of his property 
through his own efforts. In business, he is method- 
ical and systematic, reliable in all things, enter- 
prising and progressive. Under a large oak tree 
standing in Mr. Meyer's yard, Beaver Cap, the 
famous Chief of the Wyandottes, at one time had 
his cabin. A large spring rises out of the earth 
near the tree. 



^T,' FREDERICK BECK. The brightest day- 
dream to many in lands far across the sea 
.i^^l I is of the time when they can seek their for- 
^^fJ tunes in America, the land of whose re- 
sources they have heard such wonderful tales, and 
where opportunities are said to be far superior to 
those of the countries in which they live. Stark 



322 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



County' has become the home of many £oi-eigners 
who liave carried out the dream of their early 
lives and have, indeed, seen the fruition of their 
hopes since they crossed the briny deep. One of 
tliis number is Frederick Beck,\vnois now residing 
in Tuscarawas Township and is engaged in the 
honorable occupation of a farmer. 

As the name denotes, Mv. Beck is a German, and 
his birth occurred in Bavaria, November 7, 1835. 
He is the son of John L. and Margaret Beck, and 
acquired a good practical education in the ex- 
cellent schools of the country. In 1849, he 
apprenticed himself to learn the baker's trade, and 
after working at this for three j'ears, mastered the 
business, which he followed after coming to Amer- 
ica until 1884, since which time he has been en- 
gaged in cultivating the soil. 

Having fully determined to test tlie truth of the 
tilings he liad heard regarding the United States, 
Mr. Beck crossed tlie Atlantic in 1866, setting sail 
from Bremen, and after a tedious voyage of twenty- 
four days landed on American shores. Thence he 
went directly to Cincinnati, where he followed his 
trade for some time, and then came to Massillon, 
where he was similarly employed for six j'ears, at 
the end of which time he went to Akron, this State, 
where he prosecuted his trade of a baker for ten 
3'earson his own account, and was more than ordi- 
narily successful in his undertaking. 

The marriage of our subject was solemnized 
March 17, 1874, at which time IMiss Catherine, 
daughter of John and Martha (Hoover) AVhitmore, 
became his wife. Her father is deceased, but her 
mother, who is now one of the oldest pioneers in 
the county, has reached her eighty-.second year. 
By their union, Mr. and Mrs. Beck have become 
tiie parents of four children, namely: Julius J., 
Joseph A., Augusta F., and Caliierine M. 

He of whom we write located upon his present 
farm in 1884, and his estate comprises a quarter- 
section of valuable land, upon wliich he lias placed 
the best of improvements in the way of buildings 
and machinery. He is self-made in all that the 
tei'm implies, as his snug little fortune has been 
the result of his own untiring industry and good 
management. In his political relations, he is inde- 
pendent, reserving the riglit to vote for the man 



whom he considers will best fill the position. He 
is a conscientious member of the Lutheran Church, 
and, socially, is connected with tlie Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows at Massillon. In his con- 
tact with mankind, Mr. Beck is honorable as well 
as kindly inclined, and he therefore lias the confi- 
dence of business men and the friendship of neigh- 
bors and acquaintances. 



'i^- 



^^ 



■jflOHN F. IIFDSON, M. D. The profession 
of the physician is perhaps one of the 
most trying on brain and bodv of any in 
the field of science, for it absorbs the atten- 
tion of him who practices it conscientiously, both 
day and night, and brings into play the most ver- 
satile powers of his being. Dr. Hudson was born 
in Stark County, Ohio, on a farm four miles south 
of Canton, August 17, 1852, to John and Hannah 
(Long) Hudson, the former of whom was born in 
Pennsylvania, and died in 1866 at the age of fifty- 
one years, having been a carpenter and joiner by 
trade. The mother was liorn in Stark County, 
Ohio, in 1812, and died in the month of October, 
1872. She was a daughter of Maj. William Long, 
and was a lady whose many estimable qualities 
endeared her to a large circle of friends. 

Dr. John F. Hudson passed a rather uneventful 
boyhood, but received the inestimable advan- 
tages of being reared on a farm, for the pure air 
of the country and a suitable amount of labor for 
the development of his muscles tended to further 
strengthen his constitution and fit him for his fu- 
ture laborious calling. His early intellectual train- 
ing was received in the common schools near his 
home, but he afterward spent two years in Canton 
Academy, and three years in Hiram College, Ohio. 
After teaching school for a time he began to lay 
the foundation for a medical career, his kindly na- 
ture instinctively turning to that field of human 
suffering for his life work, a profession whose noise- 
less, yet ofttimes marvelous, triumphs are un- 
known to the multitude. After reading for some 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



323 



time with Dr. R. P. Johnson, of Canton, he began 
taking a course of lectures in the medical depart- 
ment of the Western Reserve University, Cleve- 
land, Ohio, at which he was graduated in 1882. Af- 
ter practicing his profession with success for three 
years at North Industry, Ohio, he came to Canton, 
which city has since been the scene of his labors. 
His practice has steadil}' increased, fully keeping 
pace with his increasing reputation as a remarka- 
bly successful physician, and he is now in the en- 
joyment of a lucrative practice. Soon after enter- 
ing upon his practice, the public began showing its 
apjireciation of his ability, his earnest effort, and 
his conscientious devotion to the duties of his pro- 
fession, as it always shows appreciation of genu- 
ine merit. He has the tact which makes fast friends 
of his patients, and he has the suave, polished and 
courteous manners which make him a favorite in 
social circles. He is a menilicr of several medical 
organizations and socially belongs to the Knights 
of Pythias. On the 7th of July, 1882, he was 
married to Miss Miranda Sinclair, of Sparta, Stark 
County, Ohio, a daughter of John C. Sinclair, and 
their marriage has resulted in the birth of two sons: 
R. Earl and Henry C. 

Dr. Hudson has a pretty residence in the town, 
and here he and his wife dispense a refined and 
cordial liosi)italitv to their many friends. 



eHARLES VALENTINE HAMMERSMITH, 
. who is engaged in the insurance business at 
. Massillon, represents the Ohio Farmers' 

Niagara of New York, Franklin Fire of Philadel- 
l)hia and the Washington Union of Cleveland, all 
fire insurance companies. Mr. Hammersmith is a 
native of this county, having been born in Periy 
Township, two miles northeast of this cit}', June 1, 
185;"). His father, Adam Hammersmith, was born 
in Bavaria, Germany, and when a boy came to 
America and located in Massillon, where he worked 
out on farms for a time and later learned the cab- 
inetmaker's trade. Mr. Hammersmith, after follow- 



ing that line of work for some time, became a pat- 
tern-maker and engaged to work for Hart & Brown. 

In the fall of 1854, the father of our subject 
purchased a farm, upon which he resided and at 
the same time worked in the shops of Russell i\r 
Co., walking to the city every day. His farm 
comprises sixt3'-five acres of well-improved land, 
upon which he has erected buildings of every des- 
cription. In November, 1879, he assumed the 
agency of the Ohio Farmers' Fire Insurance Com- 
pany in partnership with our subject and met with 
more than ordinary success in his undertakings. 
He has been very prominent in local affairs and 
has served in the responsible positions of Constable, 
Justice of the Peace, and Township Trustee. In 
his political relations, he is a Democrat and a de- 
voted member of the Catholic Church. The 
maiden name of his wife was Margaret Fries; she 
was also born in Bavaria, Germany, and was the 
daughter of John Fries; she came to the United 
States in 1833, when very small. 

Of the four children who grew to matuie years, 
our subject is the }'Oungest of the family. lie was 
given an excellent education, supplementing the 
knowledge gained in the common schools by an 
attendance of three terms in the Smithville Acad- 
emy and was later graduated from the High School 
at Massillon in the Class of '79. He then took a 
course in the Commercial College at Pittsburgh, 
from which he was graduated in 1881. After 
completing his studies, Mr. Hammersmith contin- 
ued on the farm and also worked with his father 
in the insurance business until 1888, when he lo- 
cated in Massillon and devoted his entire time and 
attention to his present business. 

August 29, 1883, our subject and Miss Annie 
E., daughter of Jacob Henrich were united in mar- 
riage. Her father was a native of German}' and a 
shoemaker by trade. He is now living a retired 
life, however, having accumulated a sufHciency of 
this world's goods to keep him in peace and plenty. 
Her mother who also was a native of German}', 
bore the maiden name of Mary Kessel and came 
with her parents to this country, where she was 
married. The father was a Democrat in politics 
and a Catholic in religion. 

Mr. Henrich was a fine musician and for a time 



324 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



was cornet instructor and leader of the old 
silver band. The three children born to Mr. and 
Mrs. Hammersmith are Antliouy A., Mary A., and 
John Valentine. The parents are members in 
good standing of the Catholic Church and the 
father in politics is a Democrat. He is a man 
who has always met with success in worldly affairs 
and ranks high in commercial circles. Fortune 
having smiled upon liis efforts, he is numbered 
among the wealthy citizens of this place, having a 
good business and owning a fine residence, where 
he and his family enjoy all tlie comforts that lieart 
can desire and money purchase. 



i-^ / 



AVID ERB. Tlie agricultural districts of 
)j\ this great Commonwealth are the homes 
of scores of worthy men whose lives 
have been spent in such a manner as to win 
the respect of those with whom they associate, 
while their well-directed efforts have resulted 
in comfortable homes and man3- enjoyments. In 
Stark County frequent representatives of this 
class may be found and one of them is he whose 
histor}' will be outlined in these paragraphs. His 
home is located on section 15, Tu?carawas Town- 
sliip, where he has a thoroughly tilled farm, con- 
sisting of eighty-two acres, whereon may be found 
such buildings as are made necessary by the ex- 
tent of his work or will increase the comfort of 
his home life. 

Mr. Erb w-as born in Lancaster County, Fa., 
May 29, 1818, and is the son of Joseph and Sarah 
Ero. His parents were also natives of the Key- 
stone State and his great-grandfather Erb was 
born in Germany. Owing to the comparatively 
new surroundings of his boyhood, our subject re- 
ceived but a limited education, the early public 
schools of Ills native State having in their curric- 
ulum only the common branches. In these he was 
well grounded and being imbued with native in- 
telligence and a desire for information, he has by 



reading, observation and experience become well 
informed. When sixteen years of age, he left 
home and learned the trade of a boot and siioe- 
maker, which he followed for ten years. 

He of whom we write was married, September 
23, 1851, to Miss Maria Yost, who was born in 
Wurtemberg, Germany, August 10, 1823. She 
was a daughter of John and Mary Yost, who were 
also natives of the Fatherland, and when seven 
years of age accompanied them on their emigra- 
tion to America. The family lived for a time in 
Philadelphia, whence they later removed to Mont- 
gomery and then to Lancaster County, that State, 
where they spent their last days. Mr. and Jlrs. 
Erb are the parents of five children, four of whom 
are living, namely: Franklin Y., Henry, Linda, 
and John. Charles is deceased. 

In 1853, our subject with his wife and one child 
emigrated to this State and after making their 
home a short time in Wayne County, came tlic 
same year to Stark County, locating in Tuscarawas 
Township, where they now reside, and where he 
has since been classed among its best agriculturists. 
His intelligence, interprising natureand honorable 
dealings have given him an excellent standing in 
business circles, where his word is considered as 
good as his bond. He has materially contributed 
to the growth of Stark County, and since residing 
here has taken an interest in its welfare. 



ILLIAM H. RRAUCHER. When the agri- 
culturists of any community are com- 
'^/^J posed of men and women of courage, 
enterprise, intelligence and intearity, prosperity 
will attend all departments of their work, and 
tills is pre-eminently the case with the farmers of 
Stark County, of whom Mr. Braucher is one 
of the foremost. He was born in the township in 
which he is now residing May 8, 1838, to John 
and Anna (Liehtenwaller) Braucher, the former 
of whom was born in Somerset County, Pa., 
March 1, 1811, and the latter in Ohio, August 27, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



325 



1817, their marriage taking place in the latter 
State January 14, 1836. After the celebration of 
tills event, they located on a farm in .Jackson 
Townslii|J, on which had been erected a small log 
house and a log barn, and this place continued to 
be their liome until 1846, when tliey moved to 
the farm on which the subject of this sketch now 
lives. In 1867, he removed to section 11, of Jack- 
son Township, but at the end of six months re- 
turned to the old homestead, where he spent his 
last days, dying September 30, 1885, his wife's 
deatii occurring on the 24th of September, 1853. 

The paternal grandfather, Daniel Brauclier, was 
a Peunsylvanian, who came to Oliio in 1822, be- 
coming one of the first settlers of Stark County. 
He settled on a farm in Jackson Township, on 
which no improvements had been made, but at 
once erected thei-eon a small log house, which 
was without windows, doors or a floor, and on this 
farm remained until bis deatli in 1853. The ma- 
ternal grandfather, Jacob Lichten waller, was -also 
born in Pennsylvania and was an early settler of 
Stark County, Ohio. After the death of his first 
wife, John Braucher married Christina Mutchler, 
November 15, 1855, at wiiich time slie was thirty- 
two years of age. His first union resulted in the 
birth of four sons and four daugliters: Sarah, de- 
ceased; William II.; jNIanias, who was killed in 
the battle of Buzzard's Roost; P0II3', wife of John 
Young; Alban, a resident of Noble County, Ind.; 
Catherine M., wife of Isaac Ilossler, of this county; 
and two children that died in infancy. 

William H. Braucher was given tlie advantages 
of the schools near his home and until he was twen- 
ty-eight years of age he made his home under the 
shelter of the parental roof. September 23, 1866, 
he was married to Miss Ellen S. Barnhard, a na- 
tive of Adams County, Pa., where she was born 
February 13, 1842. At the age of eight years, 
she was brought by her parents, John and Sa- 
lome (Notl) Barnhard, to Stark County, Oliio, 
and here grew to womanhood and was married. 
Her father and mother were sevent3'-one and 
eighty j'ears of age respectively at the time of 
their deaths. Of six children born to them, Mrs. 
Brauclier was the eldest. After his marriage, Mr. 
Braucher located on the farm on which he now 



lives, and here his six children were born: Alban 
Henry, a carpenter by trade; John Harvey, who 
has attended the Capitol University of Columbus, 
Ohio, for two and a half years; Orin Edwin, Leo 
William, George W. T. and Anna Salome. 

Mr. Braucher's land comprises one hundred 
and fifty-eight acres, allot which is well improved. 
He has tilled this land ever since boyhood, for it 
is his father's old homestead, and every foot of 
the ground is dear to biin. He is engaged in 
general farming and stock-raising, and keeps a 
good grade of horses, cattle and hogs. Politically 
a Democrat, he has been Township Treasurer and 
Assessor, the duties of which positions he ably 
discharged. He and his family are members of 
St. Jacob's Lutheran Church, in which he has been 
a Deacon for many years, and in which he is an 
active worker. 



i>^-<m 



-5- 



A Tin AS GROVEMILLER occupied a 
foremost place among the fanners of Stark 
Count}'. His farm, which comprised one 
hundred and seventy-seven and one-half 
acres, was one of surpassing fertility, which was 
very carefully cultivated, yielding excellent crops, 
and its im|)rovements were substantial and in- 
cluded everything necessary for conducting ag- 
riculture properly. Since his death, which oc- 
curred February 26, 1875, the farm has been op- 
erated by his excellent wife and sous. 

Like many of the best residents of this county, 
our sul)ject was born across the ocean in Germany, 
the date thereof being 1816. In 1833, when a 
young man, he determined to seek his home in 
America, and on coming hither made his way di- 
rect to this county and located in the city of Can- 
ton, where he resided for a number of years. In 
the spring of 1861. he took up his abode in Perry 
Township, locating on a farm where his widow is 
at present residing. He was married March 4, 
1861, to Miss Mary Smith, who was born in this 
county, October 4, 1833, She was the daughter of 



326 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



John and Nancy (Schriever) Smith, the former of 
whom was a native of Lancaster County, Pa. He 
removed to this county at an early day, however, 
where his death occurred in October, 1863. Mr. 
and Mrs. (irovemiller became the parents of six 
cliildrcn, viz.: .Toliu; Emma, Mrs. Jacob Baiinach; 
William, Amanda, Lydia and Edward. 

Mv. tirovemiller of this sketch was a man of 
excellent reputation, thrift}' and skillful in the 
management of his affairs, and was one of the 
solid citizens of the township. He was a member 
of the (ierman Reformed Church and was a devout 
Christian, as was shown by his conduct in all the 
affairs of life. In his political relations, he voted 
with the Democratic party. He received an excel- 
lent education in the model schools of liis native 
country, and when old enough to choose an occupa- 
tion for himself became a farmer. 

The farm which our subject left at his decease 
comprised one hundred and seventy-seven and one- 
half acres, which is being finely cultivated and 
supplied with an excellent class of buildings. His 
wife is a member of the Lutheran Church and a 
most excellent lady, possessing, as did her husband, 
the virtues of a true Christian. He was a member 
of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of 
Canton. 



^ AMES B. SMITH. Stark County is fortu- 
nate in that the farmers who form such an 
important proportion of her population 
are in general a highly intelligent, ener- 
getic, thrifty, and business-like set of men. Of one 
of these, James B. Smith, we write. His farming 
operations center on section 32, Perrj' Township, 
where he has eighty acres of land under good cul- 
tivation, and supplied with all the nepessary im- 
provements that go to make up a desirable farm. 
Our subject was born February 15, 1835, is a 
native of this county, and the son of Benjamin 
and Marv (Coder) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. 
The Coder family were among the earlier pioneers 



of this township, having located upon new land 
in this section in 1818. The father of our subject 
emigrated overland with a team to this county in 
1830, in company with his parents, and after ar- 
riving herein Stark County, resided for a short 
time in Bethlehem, now Navarre, vvhen it contained 
but a few houses. He later removed to the farm 
which is the present home of our subject, which he 
set industriously about clearing and improving. 
Of the large famil}' of children of which he was 
the father, three are now living, viz.: Our subject; 
Frances, the wife of AVilliam Paden, and Hairiet. 
Of the second union of Benjamin Smith, there were 
born two children, Charles K., and Mary, the lat- 
ter of whom is deceased. 

The father of our subject was a prominent and 
influential member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and contributed liberally toward the ei'ec- 
tion of the new church building. In early life, he 
was a Democrat in politics, but later, finding that 
he had sutticient cause for changing his views, 
joined the ranks of the Rejjublican party, with which 
he voted until his decease, which occurred Decem- 
ber 11, 1871. The mother of our subject departed 
this Ijfe January 15, 1846, and was, like her hus- 
band, a consistent member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 

James B. Smith, of this sketch, received his edu- 
cation in the pioneer log schoolhouse in the vicin- 
ity of his home, and rendered his father great as- 
sistance in clearing the farm and placing it under 
good tillage. He is now residing upon the old 
homestead, and has devoted his entire life to agri- 
cultural pursuits, in which calling he has been 
more than ordinarily successful. Mr. Smith was 
always greatly interested in local affairs, and for 
many years served as an efficient member of the 
School Board, and during his administration many 
changes were made in the school system, and 
Imihlings were erected to accommodate the 
growing population. 

May 1, 1856, Mr. Smith and Miss Julia Rem- 
pis were united in marriage. The lady, who is 
the daughter of Lewis and Louisa (Burk) Reinpis, 
was born in Massillon, February 16, 1834. She 
has become the mother of five children, namelj-; 
Abuer, who is deceased; Olive L., a teacher iu AU 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



327 



bany, N. Y.; "William N., who is residing in Mont- 
gomery County, Mo.; Ilarvey B. and Franklin .T., 
are at home. 

As before stated, our .subject owns eigiit^' acres 
of land, and during his life possessed those traits 
of character that won consideration and contidence. 
Hei is an active politician, a thoroughly good 
Republican, and one who interested himself in all 
that concerned his township. He is a prominent 
member of the First Methodist Episcopal Church 
of Massillon, and is identified with its every 
good work. 

The i)arents of Mrs. Smith had a family of seven 
children, of whom four are living: Charles; Amelia, 
Mrs. Smith; Henry, and Catherine, Mrs. Dan- 
iel Rager. Mr. and Mrs. Rempis were born in 
Wurtemberg, German_y, and were members in good 
standing of the Lutheran Church. 



HARLES D. PAINTER, M. D. Among the 
well-known ph3sicians of Alliance, Dr. 
vJ Painter holds a prominent place, which is 
due to his professional skill and knowledge. Dur- 
ing more than a decade, he has been doing his ut- 
most to alleviate suffering in and about the city 
and his zeal, carefulness and sympathy are duly 
appreciated b}' a large circle of patrons and friends. 
He was born in Salem, this State, April 26, 1858, 
and is the son of Dr. Elwood G. and Louisa J. 
(White) Painter, also natives of the Buckeye 
Slate. 

The father of our subject was also a physician, 
and a graduate of the Western Homeopathic Col- 
lege of Cleveland. When locating for the prac- 
tice of his profession, he settled in Alliance, in 
1860, and was therefore its pioneer homeopathic 
phj'sician. He was not only well versed in medi- 
cal lore, but was a man of broad culture and ex- 
tensive information on topics of general interest. 
He attained to a high place in the medical frater- 
nity and was very successful in a financial way, 



accumulating a large amount of property. In his 
death, which occurred in 1866, Stark County lost 
one of its most i)rogressive and in lUiential citizens, 
one who was popular and active in all good works, 
and respected as he deserved by all who knew 
him. 

Our sul)ject, who is the eldest child liorn to his 
parents, prosecuted his early studies in Alliance 
and completed his education in Bethany College, 
West Virginia, from which institution he was grad- 
uated in 1879. Desiring to become a physician, he 
read medicine under Dr. R. B. .Johnson, of Ravenna 
this State, and was graduated with the Class of 
'82 from the Cleveland Homeopathic Hospital 
College. Establishing himself in this city, he 
opened an office where he has been successful in 
prolonging life, therebj' winning a name which is 
held in honor throughout a wide circle. 

In 1882, Dr. Painter and Miss Carrie J. McGirr, 
who was born in this county, were united in mar- 
riage. The lady is the daughter of Rezin and 
Cassandra McGirr, and by her union with our sub- 
ject has become the mother of two children, El- 
wood B. and Lorene. Upon Dr. Painter the man- 
tle of his father seems to have fallen, as he has an 
excellent reputation extending throughout the 
county, and from a mind filled with facts and theo- 
ries he judiciously selects those adapted to the case 
in hand. In taking a literary course, he was grad- 
uated with the honors of his class. Socially, he is 
a member of the Northwestern Ohio Medical So- 
ciety, and is also connected with the fraternity of 
several different colleges. 



(i? RA M. ALLEN was for many years a promi- 
11, nent educator of Eastern Ohio, and is now 
,'|l living a retired life in Canton. He was born 
in Rensselaer County, N. Y., on the 11th of May, 
1821, and comes of an old family of New Eng- 
land. His grandfather, Samuel Allen, was born 
in Rhode Island, and was of Scotch-Irish extrac- 
tion. He married Patience Spoon, whose father, 



328 



POUTEAIT AM) BIOGRAPniCAL RECORD. 



a sea-captain, was of English and AVclsh descent. 
Caleb Allen, father of our subject, was born in 
Rensselaer County, July 15, 1787, and married 
Hulda Dawley, who was born in Rhode Island on 
the 18th of October, 1788, and was of Welsh 
lineage. They began their domestic life in his 
native county, where they spent several years, 
when they removed to Cayuga Countj-. Later, 
they became residents of Ontario County, N. Y., 
where the.\- resided until their deaths. Mr. Allen 
lived the quiet, retired life of a farmer and was a 
man of sterling worth. 

Our subject was the fifth in a family uumlxning 
four sons and two daughters, of whom three are 
now living. His boyhood daj-s were spent upon 
his father's farm and his early education, acquired 
in the district schools, was sui)plemented h^- study 
in Skaneateles Academy. At the age of eighteen 
j'ears, he began teaching in Ontario County, N. Y., 
where he followed his chosen profession until 
1842. In the spring of that year, he came to Mas- 
sillon. Stark County, Ohio, where he was era- 
ployed as a teacher until 1847. Coming to Can- 
ton, he then took charge of a select school, which 
he carried on until 1850, when the city adopted 
the union school law — the third city in the State 
to take advantage of this law. In 1854, Mr. 
Allen went to Massillon and took charge of the 
Charit}' Rotch School of that place, which he 
superintended until 1864. In that j'ear, he gave 
up his school work and turned his attention to 
farming, which he followed until 1869, when he 
was elected Treasurer of Stark County for a term 
of two years. Faithfully did he perforin his 
duties, and on the expiration of his term he was 
re-elected, serving in all for four years. 

Mr. Allen has found a faithful companion and 
helpmate in his estimable wife, whom he wedded 
Ma3'' 29, 1844. In her maidenhood, she was Ella O. 
Graham, daughter of Hon. John Graham and Susan 
(Troop) Graham, the former of whom served as 
State Senator of Stark County. They were both 
natives of Pennsylvania. Unto them have been 
born five children: Alice, who died in 1875; Jolin 
C. married ilary Flather, of Canton, and died in Oc- 
tober, 1890, leaving a wife and two sons; Florence 
H,; Emma S., wife of L, Sollmaun, a druggist of 



Canton; and Ella O. The family resides at No. 
420 Soutli Market Street, where they have a good 
home in the midst of pleasant surroundings. 

After retiring from the Treasurer's office, Jlr. 
Allen was variously employed until 1878, when 
he again went to Massillon and had ciiarge of the 
Charity Rotch School for another decade. He was 
a most excellent educator, possessing superior abil- 
ity in instructing youthful minds, and many who 
have been successful in various walks of life have 
reason to thank him for tlie aid he gave in their 
younger years. His life has been devoted to 
school work and he has done much in the inter- 
ests of education in this community. For more 
than thirty years he was a member of the County 
Board of School Examiners. 

On attaining liis majority, Mr. Allen attiliated 
with the Democratic party, which he continued to 
support until the organization of the Republican 
party, of which he has since been a stanch advo- 
cate. He is a prominent citizen of this commun- 
ity, widely and favorably known, and is highly 
respected by all. 



,SiJ5^Si£:'^ 



^^il^I-l^li^^ 



\fl OHN SMITH. The farmers of Stark County 
are, as a class, men of busine-ss integrity, in- 
dustrious habits and excellent moral charac- 
ter, and even a brief outline of their lives 
is worthj' of the consideration of all who appre- 
ciate true worth. One who has been identified 
with the interests of Perry Township for several 
decades, and who is known among his friends as 
one of the most energetic agriculturists and worthy 
citizens of the township, is John Smith, whose farm 
is pleasantl\' located on section 24. The one hun- 
dred and twenty-.seven broad acres which stretch 
around his residence are a standing monument to 
his persistence and zeal and his financial efforts. 

Our subject was born in 1808, in Pennsylvania, 
and is a son of Jacol) and Elizabeth (Rhodes) 
Smith. When a small boy, his parents emigrating 
to this county, he accompanied them hither, the 



A* 




S</^ 



--&I2 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



331 



trip being made overland with a team and wagon. 
The}' took up their residence in Canton Township, 
where tliey were lionored members of the farming 
community. John, of tliis siiptch, passed liis youtli 
on the home farm, and attended the district schools, 
in the intervals of study assisting his father in 
such ways as were suited to his years and strength, 
and upon attaining his majority began farming on 
Ris own account. He remembers well when deer 
and wild turkeys were numeious in the Buckeye 
State, and when the country was in a compara- 
tively primitive condition. 

In his political relations, he is a stanch Demo- 
crat, which party he believes to be in the right. 
He is a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, 
and is an active worker and liberal contributor in 
that body. Mr. Smith has not only advanced his 
personal interests and surrounded himself with all 
the comforts of modern farm life, but he has iTiaui- 
fested an intelligent interest in the public welfare 
and has from time to time aided in the enterprises 
that pertain to that result. He has never married, 
and is living the life of a jolly bachelor. A sketch 
of his brother, Joseiili Smith, a|)pears on another 
page HI this volume. 



AIILON SLUTS. Stark County has within 
her borders man}' citizens who have been 
successful financially and are now living 
in retirement in the enjoyment of an ample 
income. Our subject, who is residing in Pike 
Township, is one of these and was formerly one of 
the prominent farmers and stock-raisers of this 
section. By persistent, well-directed labor, sec- 
onded by sound discretion and clear judgment, he 
accumulated a goodly amount of property and is 
now spending his declining years free from the 
cares and toils of his early life. Although he has 
sold a large portion of his land, he is still the 
proprietor of two hundred and six acres and has 
one of the most pleasant and attractive home in 
the township. 
16 



A native of this State, our subject was born in 
Fairfield Townshi)}, Tuscarawas County, July 17, 
1812, while his father, Samuel Sluts, was born in 
Frederick Count}', Md., in 1783. .Tohn Sluts, the 
grandfather, was born in the city of Baltimore, 
Md., in 1755, and the great-grandfather of our 
subject, who was a native of Germany, came to 
America in Colonial times and made his home in 
Baltimore, where he lived and died. John Sluts 
was apprenticed to learn the trade of a wheel- 
wright when sixteen years of age, and soon after 
entered the service of the Colonists in the Revolu- 
tionary War. Later in life, he operated as " mine 
host " at an hotel for fifteen years, which was lo- 
cated on the road from Frederick town to Liberty- 
town, Md. As early as 1806, he came by the over- 
land route to this State, and in Jefferson County 
purchased a quarter-section of land near East 
Springfield, which had upon it a double log cabin. 
This tract he partially improved and at the time 
of his decease, in 1833, was the owner of six hun- 
dred and forty acres of land. His career as a farmer 
was characterized b}' activit}', close attention 
to his labors and skillful management of his inter- 
ests. 

John Sluts reared a family of eighteen children, 
by two marriages, his first union being with Miss 
Margaret Howe, a native of Holland, who bore 
him four children, of whom the father of our sub- 
ject was the eldest. On the death of his wife, he 
married Miss Catherine Welch, of Irish descent, by 
whom he became the father of fourteen children. 
In religious affairs, he was a consistent member of 
the Metliodist Church and in politics was a stanch 
Democrat. 

When twenty-three _years of age, the father of 
our subject accompanied his sire to this State, and 
the following fall returned to Maryland, where he 
was married. His wife died one year later and he 
again came to this State, where, in 1810, he mar- 
ried Miss Sarah Hague, who was born in the Old 
Dominion in 1788. Siie was at that time, how- 
ever, residing in Tuscarawas County, whitiier she 
had been brought by her parents in 1808. They 
became the parents of four children, of whom our 
subject was the eldest, his brother and sisters be- 
ing: Susan, Mrs, Critchet; Mahala, who died at 



332 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



the age of three 3-ears and William. After their 
marriage, the parents of our subject located in a 
log cabin in Tuscarawas County, where the father 
died in 1821. Mrs. Sluts later married Peter 
Houseman, b}' whom she became the mother of four 
children: Nancy, John, Eliza and Perry A. She 
departed this life in Hardin County, May 17, 
18,57. 

The maternal grandfather of our subject, Francis 
Hague, was born iu Virginia, where he married 
Miss Ruth Radican, who was of Welsh-Irish extrac- 
tion. Mahlon Sluts of this sketch remained in his 
native county until a lad of twelve years when, his 
father having died years three previously, he was 
compelled to leave home on account of the treat- 
ment of his step-father. The latter ordered him to do 
work which he was not able to do, with the com- 
mand tliat he was to perform it or leave home, so 
laying the matter before his mother, and telling 
her that he would have to away, she provided him 
with a pillow-case in which was placed a shirt, an 
arithmetic and slate. Thus equipped for the battle 
of life our young hero started out in the wide 
world and going to the home of his uncle, James 
Sluts, there learned the trades of a tanner and dis- 
tiller. 

Upon attaining bis majority, our subject estab- 
lished a home of his own, and was married, March 
23, 1834, to Miss Rebecca Walburn, who was born 
March 11, 1816, in Pennsylvania. She was the 
daughter of Leonard and Sarah (Eshwi) Walburn, 
also natives of the Keystone State. The father 
having died there, the mother married a second 
time, and on the overland trip to this county in 
1823 was accompanied by her daughter, Mrs. Sluts. 
To our subject and his wife has been granted a 
family of seven children, five of whom are living, 
namely: Samuel AV., Sarah A. (Mrs. Howenstine), 
George J., Rebecca J. (Mrs. Brittain), and AVilham 
L. John M. died when ten years of age and an- 
other in infanc}'. 

After his marriage, the original of this sketch 
made his home in Holmes County, this State, 
where he owned eighty acres of land. He resided 
there but a few months, however, when he sold his 
property aud came to this county, where he pur- 
chased one hundred and thirty acres in Sugar 



Creek Township. This he operated for three and 
one-half years, and then sold on account of mov- 
ing to Carroll County. In the latter-named place, 
he made his home for nine j-ears, and during that 
time became the owner of several different farms. 
In 1848, he returned to Stark Count3^ and pur- 
chased his present valuable estate, which, since it 
came into his possession, has been greatly changed 
as he has placed upon it good buildings, fences 
and everything needful for carrying on farming to 
the best advantage. At one time, he was the 
proprietor of three hundred and twenty broad 
acres, of which he sold one hundred and eleven 
acres, which still leaves him a large and beautiful 
estate. He has given his children the best advan- 
tages in the way of obtaining an education and 
presented them each with 11,000 in money when 
leaving the parental roof to go to homes of their 
own. 

Mr. Sluts was engaged in agricultural pur- 
suits until the past seventeen years, when he re- 
tired from active work and has his farm operated 
by tenants, from the rental of which he derives a 
goodly income. He had no special advantages in 
his youth but on the contrary began his life work 
with a limited education but an abundant store of 
enterprise and determination, and it is doubtful if 
Stark County contains a better example of what 
in the West would be called a " hustler " than our 
subject. His farm is one of the best in the county, 
every rod of it being made useful and ornamental 
and displaying the hand of a master in its appear- 
ance, fertility and the improvements that it bears. 

March 23, 1884, our subject and his wife were 
given a pleasant surprise by their children, it be- 
ing the fiftieth anniversarj- of their married life. 
About forty relatives and friends were present, 
and in the course of the evening Mr. Sluts was 
made the recipient of another surprise by being 
presented with a handsome gold-headed cane. Mr. 
and Mrs. Sluts have been members < f the church 
for a half centurj', and at the present time are 
identified with tiie Methodist Episcopal denomina- 
tion, and it is their constant endeavor so to order 
their lives tiiat they will bring no discredit upon 
the church )iut on the contrary extend its influ- 
ence. 



rORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



333 



He of whom we write witnessed the running of 
the first canal boat in 1828, and saw the first train 
in 1851. In the early times, he harvested his 
wheat crop by means of a sickle, but has kept 
apace with all of the improvements in the way of 
farm machinery and has his i)Iace equipped with 
modern implements of all kinds. A Democrat 
prior to the organization of the Republican partj"^, 
he worked as a member of its ranks for ten years, 
but at the present time is a stanch Prohibitionist 
and has worked untiringly in pushing forward 
the good cause in his locality. 



*^^S 



^^^ LONZO 15. ■\VALKEK, one of the promi- 
(ftSv/ II. jjeut .jfid successful physician and surgeons 
of Stark County, engaged in practice in 
Canton, has the honor of being a native 
of the Buckeye State. He was born in New Somer- 
set, .Jefferson County, in 1851, and when a lad of 
twelve summers came with his parents to Stark 
County. He acquired his literary education in the 
district schools, the Waynesburgh High School and 
Mt. Union College, after which he taught school 
one winter. From his childhood he has read medi- 
cine, seeming to have a special aptitude for that 
science. He early develo|)ed a taste for surgery, 
and after thorough training was graduated from 
the University of Philadelphia, Pa., in 1872. 

Dr. Walker entered upon the practice of his 
chosen profession in Canton in the spring of 1873, 
and since that time has devoted his energies to his 
life work. His labors have been eminently success- 
ful, and he has won an enviable position among his 
professional brethren, and at the same time has 
gained a large and lucrative practice, which attests 
his skill and ability. In the winter of 1879-80, 
he attended a course of lectures in the Rush Medi- 
cal College of Chicago and the following winter 
entered the Jeflferson Medical College of Philadel- 
phia, Pa., from which he was graduated in the 
spring of 1881. During that time he took a special 
course of surgery under Prof. J. EwingMears. He 



is a member of the Union Medical Association of 
Northeastern Ohio, the Ohio State Medical Society, 
the American Medical Association and the Ninth 
International Medical Congress. 

On the 6tli of September, 1876, in AVayiiesburgh, 
Ohio, the Doctor was married to Miss Mira Stull, 
and by their union have been born two daughters, 
Helen and Hazel, who are still with their parents. 
They reside at No. 45 West Tuscarawas Street, 
where they have a handsome home, I:)eautifull3' and 
tasteful!}' furnished. 

Dr. Walker is a gentleman in the highest sense 
of the word; affable and courteous in manner and 
of kiudly disposition, he wins friends wherever he 
goes and carries away with him the good wishes 
and kindly regard of all with whom he comes in 
contact. Ho is a skillful and practical surgeon and 
physician and his tender and thoughtful care and 
patience at the bedside of the sick and suffering 
have won him the love of many. The Doctor is 
w'ell worthy the success which has alroadj- crowned 
his efforts and his future will no doubt be a bril- 
liant one. 



mfy 



'^fl OHN F. NIESZ, of the firm of Niesz Brothers, 
dealers in boots and shoes, of Canton, has 
been engaged in business in this line since 
1888, when with his brother, F. B. Nie»z,and 
W. S. Allen, he opened a store under the firm name 
of Niesz Brothers & Allen, at No. 42 South Market 
Street. The store in which they are located is 
20x100 feet, and they use the first floor and the 
basement. They carry a full and complete line of 
boot-; and shoes and rubber goods, and are now cn- 
J03'ing an excellent trade, which has constantl}' 
increased from the beginning. 

Mr. Niesz was born on a farm south of Canton 
on tlie 2d of May, 1846, and is a representative of 
one of the oldest families of Stark County. His 
great-grandparents removed from Pennsylvania 
to this county in 1806, when his grandfather, John 



334 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Niesz, was a lad of only seven summers. His father, 
AVilliam Xiesz, was born on the old homestead in 
1824, and is still residing on the farm in Canton 
Township. He married Delilaii Ronsh, a native of 
this county and a daughter of Frederick Roush, 
one of the early settlers. She died on the home 
farm in 1855, leaving six children. Mr. Niesz was 
again married and by the second union has four 
children. 

Our subject was the second child of the first mar- 
riage. During his early bo.yhood he aided in the 
labors of the farm and attended the district schools. 
When only eighteen years of age, he responded to 
the country's call for troops, in .lanuary, 1865, en- 
listing in Company A, One Hundred and P^ighty- 
sixth Ohio Infantry. Tlie regiment was assigned 
to the Army of the Cumberland and did garrison 
dut}'. Mr. Niesz served for eight months and was 
honorablj' discharged on the 26th of September, 
1865, after which he returned to the parental roof. 
Not content with tlie education he had acquired, 
he entered Greersburg Seminary, where he pursued 
his studies two terms, and then became a student 
in Mt. Union College, where he remained four 
terms. To school teaching he then turned his at- 
tention in the winter season, while in the summer 
mouths he engaged in farm labor. 

In 1870, Mr. Niesz was married to Miss 
Mary L. Brenner, a native of Lancaster County, 
Pa., and a daughter of .John II. Brenner. They 
began their domestic life upon tiie farm, and two 
children came to bless their home: John W. and 
Gracie F. Tlie mother departed this life February 
5, 1878, and Mr. Niesz married Miss Fannie L. 
Brenner, a sister of his flist wife. B^^ this union 
two interesting children have lieen born: Ada May 
and Frederick Garfield. 

After his first marriage, Mr. Niesz devoted his 
attention to general farming and market gar- 
dening until 1888, when he embarked in business 
as before stated. His home is just outside the cor- 
poration limits of Canton, on the Waynesburgh 
road, where he owns sixteen acres of valuable land. 
His home and the other buildings upon the farm 
are in keeping with the enterprising and progres- 
sive spirit of the owner. Mr. Niesz is connected 
with several social organization, being a member 



of Canton Post No. 25, G. A. R., the Grange, the 

Farmers' Alliance and American INIeehanics' Asso- 
ciation. In politics, he is a Republican. He is a 
good business man, who by courteous treatment 
and fair dealing has won a liljeral patronage which 
he well deserves. 



'^f OSEPH FOLK, one of the representative 
citizens of Stark Count}', was born in Ninii- 
shillen Townsiiip, Stark County, Ohio, on 
the 6th of July, 1847, and is the son of 
Peter and Lydia (Reese) Folk, both natives of 
Ohio, the former born in Stark County, October 
26, 1826, and the latter in Washington Township, 
the same county, on the 22d of Octolier, 1822. 

Our subject's paternal grandparents, Peter and 
Catherine (Miller) P'olk, were from the Eastern 
States, the former born close to tlie line between 
Pennsylvania and Maryland, and the grandmother 
born in Westmoreland County, Pa. Tlie great- 
grandfather of our subject. George Folk, w.as born 
in Germany, and came with his parents to Amer- 
ica when but four years of age. Peter Folk, Sr., 
grew to manhood in Pennsylvania, where he was 
married, and where all his children were born, 
tliree daughters and two sons. One of the daugii- 
ters died in infanc}'. Elizabeth married P"rederick 
Herbster, whose home was in Stark County, Wash- 
ington Township, where her descendants still 
live. She left eight children by her first husband, 
and one by her second husband, Abraham Lutz. 
Catherine married Joshua Lentz, and the}' resided 
in Washington Township, this county; she died 
leaving four children. John resided for many 
years in Nimishillen Township, on the old home- 
stead, where he died about 1881, when over eighty 
years of age. He left four children. 

Peter Folk, Jr., the father of our subject, was 
born in Ohio, after the family had removed to that 
State, and he was thirteen years younger than any 
of the other children. His grandfather had en- 
tered a section of land in Nimisiiillen Tow-nship, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



335 



and be gave that section to his three sons, two of 
whom made their homes on it. Peter Folk, Jr., 
attained his growth on tlie farm entered by his 
grandfather, and received a fair education for his 
day. His early life was spent in hard labor in 
clearing the farm, and amid pioneer scenes. He 
was married a little before his twenty-first birth- 
da}', on the 11th of December, 1846, to Miss Reese, 
and short!}' afterward his father gave him one hun- 
dred and six acres of land. This young couple 
began housekeeping in a log house, and altliough 
they had little else to begin with save willing 
hands and any amount of energy, they met with 
much success, and were classed among the substan- 
tial and representative citizens of the county. In 
1858, Mr. Folk purchased one hundred and sixty 
acres in Michigan, but sold that in 1878. In 1847, 
he erected a good bank barn, and in 1861, a fine 
residence, which still stands. The farm now be- 
longs to liis son Joseph, the subject of this sketch, 
and has been in the family for four generations. 
Only two cliildren were born to them, Joseph and 
Nancy. The latter mari'ied Peter Yader (see 
sketch). Tlie father of these children is a Repub- 
lican in politics, and his first Presidential vote was 
east in 1848, for C4en. Taylor. He has been School 
Director for fourteen or fifteen years in succession, 
and is a member of the Progressive Brethren 
Church, in which he is a Trustee. 

The original of this notice, like the majority of 
boys reared on the farm, passed his youthful days 
assisting his father and attending tlie district 
school, where he received a fair education. On 
the 4th of September, 1864, he enlisted in Com- 
pany I, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Ohio 
Infantry, and was in the Twenty-third Cor|)S. He 
was first in Tennessee, but subsequently joined 
Sherman's army at Goldsboro, N. C, and was there 
at the surrender of Johnston. He was under fire 
at Cedar Flats, and also at Kingston, N. C., and 
had a number of narrow escapes, but was never 
wounded. He was never taken prisoner, and he 
was never ofl" duty but one day. On the 28th of 
June, 1865, he was lionorably discharged, and re- 
turned to the parental roof, where, in connection 
with farming, he lan a thresiiing-machine, he and 
his partner operating tlie first steam-thresher in the 



county. In 1872, he bought a one-half interest in 
a sawmill on his father's place, and this he still 
operates. 

Mr, Folk was married on the 14th of December, 
1873, to Miss Eliza A. Miller, of Louisville, Ohio, 
wliere she was born on the 3rd of December, 1847. 
Her parents, Peter and Barbara (Kloffenstein) 
Miller, were natives of France and America, re- 
spectively. After marriage, our subject and wife 
resided with the former's father for five years, and 
then our subject purchased the home place. He 
resided on this until December, 1891, and then re- 
moved to his fine residence in Louisville, where he 
now makes his home. He has no children. Like 
his ancestors before liim, our subject advocates the 
platform of the Republican party, and is deeply 
interested in politics. He has been Trustee for 
three years, and in 1889 he was nominated by his 
party for Director of the County Infirmary, but as 
the county is largely Democratic, he was beaten. 
He is a member of the Reformed Church, as is also 
Mrs. Folk. He is a member of Canton Post No. 
25, CJ. A. R., of Canton; is also a member of the 
Junior Order of United American Mechanics, Louis- 
ville Council No. 152. 




^->^^<l 



_^/NDREW MEYER. In the agricultural 
@//j|| circles of Stark County, the late Andrew 
Meyer was by universal consent, accorded 
a high place. He was eminently success- 
ful in a financial sense, exhibited clearness of 
perception and soundness of judgment, and, more- 
over, enjoyed a reputation for moral worth and 
integrity of character that is a proud heritage to 
his children. He was one of the most prominent 
farmers in Canton Township, where he had a val- 
uable estate, located on section 5. 

He of whom we write was the second son of 
Andrew Meyer, Sr., who was one of the early set- 
tlers of Stark County, having come hither across 
the mountains from Baltimore, Md., as e.'irly as 
1817. Purchasing twenty-two liundred acres of 



336 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



laiul in Canton Township, he turned his atten- 
tion to its development, and succeeded before his 
death in placing the greater part of it under ex- 
cellent cultivation. He had a high reputation as 
a man of unswerving integrity, who did as he 
would be done by, and was looked upon as one of 
the most valued citizens. 

The father of our subject was horn in the city 
of Bonn, on the Rhine, and when quite young, 
entering the Austrian service, fought against the 
Turks. He later was a soldier in the French 
army, and on coming to America in the latter 
part of the eighteenth century, settled in Balti- 
more, Md., where he was employed by the Gov- 
ernment as a brass molder and burnisher, and 
was compelled to wait for his pay till the close of 
the war. He was later an officer, and commanded 
a compan}' at the battle of Bladenburg, and as a 
reward for his brave conduct during that -disas- 
trous engagement, he was presented bj- his Gen- 
eral with a fine rifle. 

When coming to this county, in 1817, Andrew 
Meyer, Sr., as before stated, bought a large tract 
of land from the Government, which was located 
northwest of Canton. There he erected a house, 
in which his family resided until 1822, when he 
built the large brick residence which is now occu- 
pied by Ed J. Meyer, a popular and wealthy 
horse dealer in this county. The brick used in 
this structure was made on a farm, and the wood 
for finishing was hauled over the mountains from 
Baltimore, Md. The residence in tliose days was 
considered a great curiosity and people came from 
miles around to see it. He was very wealthy 
and contributed liberall3' of his means toward the 
upbuilding of his county, and his death, which 
occurred in 1848, was greatly mourned by hosts 
of friends. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Balti- 
more, Md., in the year 1812, and came with his 
parents on their emigration to this county when 
a lad of five years. Later, returning to his na- 
tive place, he entered the Emmitsburg College, 
near Baltimore, in which institution he took a 
classical course and was graduated. In 1832, he took 
an important step in life, whereby he gained the 
devoted assistance of a good wife in the person of 



Miss Elizabeth Haslet. She also was a native of 
Maryland, having been born in Baltimore in 1816, 
and at the time of her marriage had just com- 
pleted her education and was in her sixteenth 
year. She came of a very prominent family, her 
father being Maj. Robert Haslet, a native of Cork, 
Ireland, who fought in the war between the 
Orangemen and United Ireland. Later, taking up 
his residence in the New World, he located in 
Baltimore, where he followed his trade of a gun- 
smith, and died at the advanced age of eighty-two 
years, his death being occasioned by an attack of 
yellow fever while traveling in the South. 

After his marriage, Andrew Meyer, of this 
sketch, came with his wife to Ohio, where he en- 
gaged in the mercantile business, conducting a 
dr3'-goods store on North Market Street, in 
Canton, for five years. Later, abandoning city 
life, he moved upon what was known as Duck's 
Farm, which was located near Mej-er's Lake, and 
which he continued to operate until the death of 
his father in 1848. Then, moving into Canton, 
in company with his brother Joseph, he was ap- 
pointed executor of the large estate left by his fa- 
ther, the settling up of which occupied several 
j'ears. 

The wife of our subject, who was a most intelli- 
gent and refined ladv, departed this life in 1848, 
and at her death was mourned by a large circle of 
friends outside her family. By her union with 
Mr. Meyer she became the mother of eight chil- 
dren, seven of whom grew to mature years, viz: 
Andrew J., Emma E. (now deceased), Joseph II., 
Louise C, William, Margaret and Mary I. After 
the death of his wife, our subject chose for his 
second companion Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Judge John Gross, of Baltimore, Md., her father 
being an able advocate and an officer in the AVar 
of 1812. To them was born one child, a son, 
John. The wife and mother died in 1879, having 
been preceded to the better land by her husband, 
whose death occurred in 1878. 

Andrew Meyer was a gentleman of true nobil- 
ity of character, always pleasant and considerate 
in his intercourse with others. He possessed cul- 
tured tastes, was a genuine lover of books, and 
amonsr the attractions of his home was a fine li- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



337 



brary of well-selected and valuable reading. He 
was of a literary turn of mind and wielded the 
pen of a ready writer in giving utterance to his 
opinions. He was an historian of more than or- 
dinary abilit\-. 



=!****>^S 



yF. BREED. In the complexities of city 
life, the business of merchant tailoring 
may be regarded as one of the greatest 
importance in furnishing those evidences of re- 
finement and taste that are represented in fashion- 
able and well-fitting garments. As a merchant tailor, 
Mr. Breed has earned a well-deserved reputation 
for excellence of workmanship, artistic skill and 
finish. He keeps on hand a large stock of broad- 
cloths and woolens from the best markets, and all 
work done is guaranteed to suit. 

Mr. Breed is a native-born resident of Massillon, 
his birth occurring on the 18th of July, 1856, and 
he is a son of Richard and Frances (Tiiert) Breed, 
natives respectively of Lynn, Mass, and Paris, 
France. Richard Breed was born in the year 1814, 
and came with his parents to Staik Countj-, locat- 
ing with them at Kendall. The trip was made 
with teams and wagons. Mr. Breed was one of 
seven children, four sons and three daughters. His 
father was engaged in farming, and in addition 
also followed contracting on the canal. His death 
occurred when about fifty-three years of age. The 
father of our subject engaged in the butchering 
business in Massillon, on AVest Main Street, and 
followed this successfully for over thirty years. 
He died in 1881. His wife came with her parents 
to America when quite young, and with them lo- 
cated in New Lancaster, where she grew to woman- 
hood. She is now seventy-five years of age and 
finds a comfortable home with our subject. She 
holds membership in the Methodist Church. Of 
the six children born to this estimable couple, four 
daughters and two sons, two of the daughters are 
deceased. 

The original of this sketch, the youngest in 



order of birth of the above-mentioned family, se- 
cured a good practical education in the High 
School of Massillon, and when eighteen years of 
age he was ai)prenticed to learn the tailor's trade 
in Alliance. Later, he took a situation in Osceola, 
Pa., where he remained nine months and then re- 
turned to Massillon, where he took up coat-making 
for Altman, Gross & Wetter, continuing with this 
firm for two years. After this, he was engaged in 
his trade at Alliance, Akron, and Three Rivers, 
Mich., and Washington, Pa., working at coat-mak- 
ing. In 1884, he started in business here and was 
engaged as cutter for five years. In the fall of 
1891, he started his present business, has a good 
trade, and his customers are among the best class 
of people in the city. He employs from eight to 
ten hands and is located at No. 17 East Main 
Street. Socially, he is a member of the Knights of 
Pythias, Uniform Rank, and is also a member of 
the American Meclianics and the Adelphia Society 
here. In politics, he is a Republican. 



EMANUEL HORNBERGER, Sk. All in 
whom brotherly kindness is found rejoice 
in knowing that men of declining years are 
able to rest from the toils of life and enjoy the 
comforts and pleasures to which years of industry 
have fairly entitled them. In Stark Countj-, a 
goodly number of men are enaljled thus to cease 
from the cares of life, and among this number is 
Mr. Hornberger, who is still living on his beautiful 
farm in Tuscarawas Township. 

The gentleman whose name introduces this 
sketch is a native of Pennsylvania, having been 
born October 15, 1812, to Jolin and Leah Horn- 
berger, who were also natives of that State. 
He continued to reside in his native county until 
reaching his fifteenth year, when he moved to Lan- 
caster County and there remained until reaching 
his m.ajority. When ready to establish a home of 
his own, he was married in Pennsylvania, in 



338 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, 



1835, to Miss Annie Hardraan, and to them was 
granted a family of eight children, four of whom 
are living, nameh': Samuel, Lewis, Emanuel, and 
Harriet, Mrs. Hiram Overdurf. The wife and 
mother departed this life, and the lady whom Mr. 
Hornberger chose as his second companion was 
Mrs. Annie Kacc. 

Oiu' subject began the labors of life with but 
limited means, and his present excellent provision 
for his declining years is due to his good manage- 
ment and industry. During his earlier years he 
carried on general farming, his crops including all 
the grains that the climate and soil favored. He 
is justly regarded as a man of unimpeachable char- 
acter, and his fellow-citizens have much respect for 
him. As one of the old residents of tlie county, 
he has aided greatly in its improvement and growth 
in all that pertains to the best good of the people. 



-^^+^P=- 



jh^ ICHAEL J. HOLTZ. Among those who 
I IW ''■'^ tilling the soil of Stark County in such 
I Ib a manner as to secure by their efforts a 
'* good livelihood, and make provision for 

declining years, is Michael J. Holtz, whose home is 
in Plain Township. For many years he lias been 
engaged in agricultural pursuits, and so successful 
has he been, that he now owns a valuable estate on 
sections 14 and 15. His residence is a comfortable 
and homelike structure, while conveniently ar- 
ranged near it are the barns, granaries, etc., which 
belong to a well-regulated farm. 

Tlie original of this sketch, who comes of a verj' 
prominent family in the history of this county, 
was born on his present farm, January 23, 1826. 
His father, John Holtz, was born December 9, 
1790, in Pennsylvania, while his grandfather, 
Michael Holtz, was a native of Germany, who on 
emigrating to America, just after the Revolution- 
ary War, located in the Keystone State. In 1810, 
he visited this State, and was so well pleased with 
the outlook that the following j'ear he removed 
hither with iiis famil}', the journey being made 



over the mountains with horses and wagons. Lo- 
cating on the Harrisburgh Road, in this township, 
he there entered a tract of Government land, and 
in the woods erected the customary log cabin. Al- 
though Indians were plentiful, and wild animals 
numerous, tiiey suffered no other harm from tlieir 
visits than being badly frightened. The grand- 
father developed a good farm from the wilderness, 
and made his home on this section until his deatli 
at an advanced age. 

Tlie father of our subject was a young man of 
twent3'-oue years when his parents removed to this 
State. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and 
for six months did service about the lake near 
Sandusky. On returning home at the close of 
hostilities, he made a trip on horseback to his na- 
tive State, and returning hither was married in 
1814, to Miss Mary Werstler, who was born in 
Maryland, and was brought to this county bj' her 
parents as early as about 1806. After establishing 
a home of his own, John Holtz located on the 
beautiful farm where his son, our subject, is resid- 
ing, at a time when its only improvement was a 
log cabin. The wolves in that early day proved 
ver}- troublesome, as when the "men folk" were 
in the field at work, they would kill the sheep. 
Like other pioneers, he marketed liis grain at 
Cleveland, conveying that article to the Forest 
City with a four-horse team, and on the return 
trip brought back salt, leather, etc., for which a 
high (irice was paid. He was in all respects a man 
of excellent character, whose obliging manner and 
honest, straightforward dealings gained him the 
regard of all about him, and his death, wliicli oc- 
curred on Friday, August 13, 1875, was a severe 
blow, not only to his family, but to hosts of warm 
personal friends. He was a prominent member 
of the Lutheran Church, and aided in the con- 
struction of the first log church of that denomina- 
tion in this locality. 

The parents of Mrs. Holtz, the mother of our 
subject, were George and Mary Werstler, who, on 
coming to this county in 1806, located in Plain 
Township, on a portion of the six hundred and 
forty acres of land which Grandfather Werstler 
had purchased from the Government. The latter 
gentleman was a very wealthy man and was fa- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



341 



miliarly designated by the old settlei-s as "their 
bank," as he was always ready to lend money to 
those deserving the favor. He donated the land 
for the cemeter3- and church here, and endeavored 
in all ways to promote tiie good of his fellow-men 
by his good citizenship and his interest in that 
wiiich was progressive. He was an active member 
of tiie Lutlieran Churcli, and possessed that kind 
disposition and other attributes of character that 
made him beloved by all who knew him. 

Our subject is one in a family of seven children, 
of whom six are living, his brothers and sisters 
being George, Susan, Mary, Elizabeth and Sarah. 
The mother of these children, who aided her hus- 
band greatl}' in attaining a good position among 
his fellow-men, died when in her sixtj'-ninth year. 
Our subject obtained an education in the log 
schoolhouse which has often been described in this 
book, and when attaining mature years farmed on 
shares. The lady to whom he was married, Sep- 
tember 7, 1851, was Miss Emily H. Folsom, who 
was born in Ashtabula, this State, October 23, 1829. 
Her parents, David and Phfebe (Thornton) Folsom, 
were natives respectively of Vermont and Con- 
necticut. The father came to Ohio when a young 
man, in 1808, and Miss Folsom following soon 
after, they were married in Ashtabula County, where 
they made their home until March, 1840. Then 
moving farther Westward, they located in Wayne 
County, where our subject operated an hotel until 
1848, at which date he became identified with the 
interests of Stark County. For two years he re- 
sided in New Berlin, then lived for the same 
length of time in the city of Canton, after which 
he came to Plain Township. From there he went 
with his son to Corunna, Ind., where his death 
occurred. 

The four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Holtz 
bear the respective names of Electa A., now Mrs. 
J. M. Spangler; Francis M.; Ermina, who is de- 
ceased, and Almina, widow of T. J. Pontius. Mr. 
and Mrs. Holtz have three grandchildren, Clar- 
ence T., Jennie M. and Franiiis J. Our sub- 
ject, as before stated, operated the home farm on 
shares until the decease of his father, when he 
purchased the estate, which comprises one hundred 
and thirty-four acres. For the past few years he 



has rented the greater portion of his farm, and is 
now extensively engaged in buying and selling 
stock, which branch of business he finds to be very 
remunerative. 

Religiously, lioth Mr. and Mrs. Holtz belong to 
the Lutheran Church, and the sincerity of their re- 
ligion is shown by their conduct in the ever3'da3- 
affairs of life. In politics, our subject gives his 
allegiance to the Democratic part}'. 






DAM D. VOLKMOR. One of the salient 
features of the business men of- Ohio is 
their energy and push, or, as the Ameri- 
cans put it, "go-aheadativeness." Massil- 
lon is no exception in this respect, but affords a 
striking example of the truth of the assertion, and 
Mr. Yolkmor furnishes us with a striking case in 
point. He was born in Massillon on the 3d Of 
July, 1841. and comes of sturdy German stock, his 
parents, J. Adam and Mary Barbara Volkmor, be- 
ing natives of the Kingdom of Hessen, German v. 
The elder Mr. Volkmor was a slater, roofer and 
stone-cutter in his native country, and was in the 
regular army there. Thinking to better his con- 
dition, he emigrated to America in 1832, and came 
direct to Massillon, Ohio, where he followed the 
stone-cutter's trade until his death in 1872. He 
was a member of the Catholic Church as was also 
his estimable wife. Her death occurred in 1843. 
Of the nine children born to them five are now 
living. 

Adam D. Volkmor, the second in order of birth 
of these children, is a self-made man in every sense 
of the terra, and all his accumulations are the re- 
sult of industry and good management on his part. 
Deprived of nearly all educational advantages 
in youth, never attending school more than seven 
months all told, he has made his way by hard labor 
and by the honest sweat of his brow. To assist 
the family to make a living, he began at an early 
age to work on different farms, and when twenty, 
began learning the blacksmith's trade under W. C. 



342 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Richards, with whom he remained four years, thus 
acquiring a thorough knowledge of the business. 

In the spring of 1864, our subject enlisted in 
Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-second 
Ohio Infantry, and was mustered in at Colum- 
bus. He served until his discharge in September, 
1864, as Corporal. Returning to Massillon, he re- 
sumed his trade and continued there until 1865, 
when he went to Woostcr, Wayne County, Ohio, 
and was there emploj-ed as shoer in the shops, 
making this a specialty for one year. He then re- 
turned here and was in the employ of Baj'liss & 
Co. in the agricultural works, until 1870, when he 
decided to embark in business for himself. He 
erected a shop and engaged in business as a shoer 
and general repairer until 1886, when he built a 
new shop and livery barn, 50x120 feet, the shop 
adjoining the barn. Later, he sold the stock in 
the barn and has since devoted his entire attention 
to shoeing. He runs three foiges and superintends 
all of them, and is considered the best and most 
skillful horse-shoer in this section. He thoroughly 
understands his business, is active in the discharge 
of his duties, and is prompt and reliable. 

The subject of our sketch was married in Waj'ne 
County, Ohio, in 1866, to Adaline J. Peirong, who 
was born near the city of Canton, Stark County, and 
who is a daughter of Amos Peirong, a native of 
France and a marble-cutter by trade. Six children 
have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Volkmor, four of 
whom grew to mature years, as follows: Clara, a 
graduate of the High School. Orlando C, also 
a graduate of the High School and of the 
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, in the 
Class of '90, in the department of law. He is now 
located at Canton. Adaline J. is a thorough mu- 
sician, and is teaching that accomplishment at the 
present time; and Elmer was graduated from the 
High School in the Class of '92, and was valedic- 
torian. All are unusually bright children, and 
Mr. Volkmor has reason to be proud of them. 

Our subject was a member of the City Council 
for two years from the Fourth Ward, and was on 
different committees. He is at present a member 
of the Board of Health and has been for eight years. 
Socially, he is a member of the Catholic Mutual 
Benefit Association, was the First A'ice-president, 



and is a member of Hart Post No. 134, G. A. R., 
of which he is Junior Vice-commander. He is 
also a member of the Building Committee. Mr. 
Volkmor is one of the public-spirited and wide- 
awake citizens of the county. In religion, he is a 
member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, and is one 
of its most active members. In politics, he is a 
Republican. 



'jf/OSEPH OBERLIN. An honorable place 
among the farmers of Stark Count}- is held 
^^ by the above-named gentleman, whose loea- 
v^^ tion is on section 15, Tuscuraw.as Township. 
His farm consists of one hundred acres of land, 
which are under the plow and all show signs of 
good management and intelligent improvement. 
Mr. Oberlin, who is a native of this countj', is ener- 
getically prosecuting his affairs, deriving from his 
labors a good maintenance and making provision 
for his future needs. 

Our subject, who was born July 5, 1826, is the 
son of Peter and Susannah (Creamer) Oberlin, 
who hailed from Cumberland Count}', Pa. The 
paternal ancestors of our subject were Germans. 
Peter Oberlin came with his family in 1813 to this 
county, and settled in the western portion of Tus- 
carawas Township, at a time when the now pros- 
perous city of Massillon had no existence. Of the 
children included in the parental family, the fol- 
lowing suivive: Jacob, Samuel, William E., Jo- 
seph, David and Isaiah, the four latter of whom 
make their homes in this township. The father, 
who at his death left a comfortable property, de- 
parted this life in the '50s. 

Young Oberlin of this sketch spent his youth 
amid primitive scenes, as his father belonged to 
the pioneer class, and he learned the value of in- 
dustry, persistence and determination. He pursued 
his duties in the di trict school, and here, in an 
almost trackless forest, grew toman's estate, aiding 
in the development of a new farm and joining 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



343 



with the other settlers in the sports of the day. 
Later in life, he attended school in Massillon, and 
also followed the profession of a teaclier for a 
number of years. In 1853, our subject went by 
way of the Isthmus to California, and for four 
3'ears was engaged in the gold mines, being very 
successful in his operations. When ready to re- 
turn home, in 1857, he traveled by the same route, 
which lauded him in the Golden State, and on 
again becoming identified with the interests of his 
native county, became a tiller of the soil. 

The marriage of Joseph Oberlin and Miss Mary 
A., daughter of John Christraan, was solemnized 
December 20, 1860, and b}- their marriage was 
born a family of five children, of whom the four, 
living are: Arthur C; Annie M., Mrs. B. C. Shill- 
ing; Inez R. and Mary L. As before stated, our 
subject owns one hundred acres of land, to the 
cultivation of which he is devoting himself with 
zeal and intelligence, winning therefrom the 
guerdon of good crops and proportionate moneyed 
receipts. He has always voted the Democratic 
ticket in polities, and, as a prominent member of 
the community, has served as Assessor of Tuscara- 
was Township, and on two different occasions, in 
1863 and in 1891, was candidate for the Legisla- 
ture. He is well Itnown throughout the county, 
and has a pleasant circle of acquaintances and 
many friends, both in the immediate vicinity of 
his home and in sections farther removed. As an 
influential member of the Reformed Church, he 
has held the positions of Deacon, Elder and Super- 
intendent of the Sunday-school. His good wife, 
who was a most cultured and excellent lady, died 
in June, 1879. 



E\'I R. LASH, an honored veteran of the 
late war, in which he did loyal service, has 
developed a good farm from a wild tract 
of land in Bethlehem Township, and is therefore 
worthv of a place among the pioneers of this sec- 
tion of countiy. He is a native of this county, 
having been born December 20, 1842, to Andrew 



f 



and Elizabeth Lash, also early residents of that 
township, and the former of whom died in 1859. 

Our subject passed his early j'ears amid the pio- 
neer scenes of his native county, and as soon as he 
was large enough, felled the trees, grubbed stumps, 
and did other pioneer work in evolving a farm 
from the primitive forests of that region. He re- 
ceived a limited education in the scliools of that 
da3', and has always followed the life of an agri- 
culturist. August 15, 1862, the war being in 
progress, he offered his services to aid in the de- 
fense of the Union, becoming a member of Com- 
pany A, One Hundred and Seventh Ohio Infan- 
tiy. He remained with that company for three 
months, and then joined Company D, Twelfth >.'ew 
YorkCavaliy, with which he served until his hon- 
orable discharge. He participated in numerous 
skirmishes, in all of which he displayed true sol- 
dierly valor, and won an excellent record. Later, 
he joined Sherman's command under Kilpatrick at 
Goldshoro, and with that General fouglit until 
Johnston's surrender. July 19, 1865, he was dis- 
charged, and, returning to this State, has here since 
made his home. He is now receiving a pension of 
i!8 a month from the Government. 

After his experiences of life on the battlefield, 
Mr. Lash resumed the work he had abandoned 
when he went forth to help fight his country's bat- 
tles. In the year 1872, he was married to Miss 
Clarissa, daughter of Henry and Sarah Mase, 
of whom a sketch will be found on anotlier page 
in this volume. Their pleasant wedded life has 
been greatly blessed to them b}' the birth of a son, 
Henry L. 

Our subject is the proprietor of seventy and one- 
half acres of good land, which is thoroughly culti- 
vated, and yields excellent harvests. In social 
matters, he is a Grand Army man, belonging to 
the Ft. Laurens Post at Bolivar, which he is serv- 
ing as Junior Vice-commander. In political re- 
lations, he is a Democrat, and a member of the Ma- 
sonic fraternity, and is closely identified with the 
prosperity of his township as one who generousl3' 
endeavors to help forward all enterprises tliat will 
in any way i)romote its growth. He is a prominent 
member of the United Brethren Church, and is re- 
spected for his useful and upiight life. 



344 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Mrs. Elizabeth Lash, the mother of our subject, 
was born January 18, 1815, in this county, and 
is the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Shell) Younk- 
man. Her father, wlio was a native of Germany, 
emigrated to the United States wiien a boy, and 
made Ins home in Bethlehem Township, this county, 
where he was one of the well-to-do residents. 
Miss Younkman was married Jul}- 5, 1832, to the 
father of our subject, the latter of whom was born 
in AVashington County, Pa., in 1809. He was a 
son of Isaac iind Eva Lash, and came with his par- 
ents in an early day to this county, locating upon 
the farm where Grandma Lash now resides. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lash was born a lai'ge 
family of eleven children, viz.: Catherine, Mrs. 
Charles Kleinfogle; Jacob; Mary, Mrs. Dr. John 
Parks; Levi; Theresa, Mrs. John Reigar; AVilliam, 
Callie, John, Andrew J., Daniel F. and David M. 
The father of our subject departed this life in April, 
1859, greatly respected by all who knew him. He 
was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church, 
and in his political relations, voted the Democratic 
ticket. Grandma Lash has attained to an advanced 
age, and as one of the old pioneers of this county, 
her friends are numerous throughout its borders. 



RCHIBALD R. IIAXNA. A compendium 
of Stark County would lie incomplete 
(S were no mention made of the Rotch 
School at Massillon, the most prominent 
educational institution of the county, with the 
progress of which Mr. Hanna lias been closely 
identified as Superintendent. The object of the 
school is to provide mental, moral and industrial 
training for a limited number of homeless chil- 
dren, or those whose parents are poor and infirm, 
A vested fund of $30,000 placed at interest has 
supplied the means necessarj^ to purchase the farm 
of one hundred and eighty-five acres, erect three 
buildings and support the school with the maxi- 
mum attendance of thirt}- pupils since April 1, 



1844. The fund so productive was a free gift to 
humanity from Mrs. Charity Rotch, of Massillon. 

The main building is a substantial brick struc- 
ture, 45x50 feet, four stories high, and was erected 
in 1843. Eleven years afterward a frame addition 
was built, and in 1878 a substantial brick struc- 
ture was erected, 18x42 feet, three stories high. 
In 1890, the Board of Trustees expended about 
$4,000 in repairs, and the buildings are now in 
excellent condition, well adapted to their various 
uses. The buildings are heated with steam, so that 
everj' room is comfortabl}' warm even in the cold- 
est weather, and hot and cold water are also pro- 
vided on ever}' floor. 

The benefits of the school are not restricted to 
Stark Count}- or to the State of Ohio, but anyone 
answering the requirements may make applica- 
tion. Children are admitted at the age of twelve 
years, and must be of good moral character, no 
one of doubtful morals being allowed to enter. 
Some of the men who are now prominent in the 
public affairs of the county received instruction 
in the Rotcli School, where the heart is taught 
goodness, the head knowledge and the hand in- 
dustry. The Board of Trustees comprises the fol- 
lowing: Mrs. C. McC. Everhard, President; Prof. 
E. A. Jones, Secretary; Frank L. Baldwin, Treas- 
urer; Sylvester Johnson and Charles Steese. A. R. 
Hanna, the efficient Superintendent of the school, 
is a native of Ohio, born in Wayne County, June 
8, 1833. His parents. Rev. Archibald and Mary 
(Rammage) Hanna, were natives of Pennsylvania, 
the former being of Scotch descent and the latter 
of Irish ancestry. The father was a minister in the 
Presbyterian Church and a pioneer preacher of 
Ohio, where he had an extensive acquaintance. 
After serving as pastor of the churches at Mt. 
Eaton and Fredericksburgh for a number of years, 
he came to Stark County and located on a farm 
in Tuscarawas Township, although he still followed 
the ministry. When about eighty-six years old, 
lie was called from earth. 

The parental family consisted of twelve chil- 
dren, of whom the following survive: John, a res- 
ident of Emporia, Kan.; .Toseph, a minister, now 
residing in Oregon; Alexander, of A'inton, Iowa; 
Maria, wife of Rev. 1). R. Colmery, of Los An- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



345 



geles, C'al.; Archibald R., of this sketch; Isabella, 
wife of J. M. C. Wilson, whose home is in Kansas 
Cit3', Mo., and Calvin, of Eugene City, Ore. The 
deceased are: William, Rev. Samuel, Elizabeth, 
Rev. James W., and Newton, the last-named los- 
ing his life in the Civil War. 

Tlie late J. W. Ilanna is wortliy of more than 
passing notice. He was born iu Mt. Eaton, Ohio, 
January 4, 1827, and was a graduate of Wasiiing- 
ton and Jefferson College in the Class of '51. 
His tlieological training was received at the West- 
ern Seminary, of Allegheny City, Pa., from which 
he svas graduated iu 1854. On the same day which 
witnessed his graduation. May 11, he was married 
to Miss Joanna M. Smith. His first ministerial 
charge was at I'ulton, Ohio, and he afterward ac- 
cepted the pastorate of the church at La Porte, Ind. 
Later, he was pastor of the church near Vinton, 
Iowa, and from 1873 to 1877 had a charge at Mt. 
Vernon, later officiating as pastor of the church at 
Grundy Center. He then moved to Kansas and 
spent the closing years of his life at Emporia. His 
death occurred March 16, 1892, and, at his request, 
his remains were laid beside those of three of his 
children in the Mt. Vernon, Iowa, cemeter3'. 

Our subject was reared to manliood in Stark 
County, and has engaged in agricultural pursuits 
tliroughout his entire active life. He laid the 
foundation of his education iu the common 
schools of the district, and added to his general 
fund of information b}- a systematic course of 
reading and study. January 13, 1857, he was 
married to ISIiss Mary ,1. Cook, of AVa3-ne County, 
Ohio, and the daughter of Asa C. Cook, formerly a 
prominent citizen of that count}-. Prior to her 
marriage, she was a teacher in the schools of Wayne 
and Stark Counties, and was very successful in 
that profession. Seven children were born of the 
union, namel}-; Charles, deceased; Mar}-, wife of 
S. A. McDowell, a resident of Burt Count}-, Neb.; 
Ilulda, at home; AVilliam, wlio resides in Nebraska; 
Frank, a teacher in the Rotcli School; Eva and 
Earl E., who are at home. 

For more than a half-century Mr. Hanna resided 
in Tuscarawas Township, where he served as Trus- 
tee, and in otiier positions of responsibility. For 
one ye^r Ue was President of the Stark County 



Agricultural Society, and for two years .served as 
President of the Stark County Horticultural Soci- 
ety. For twenty-one years, in Dalton, Ohio, he 
officiated as Ruling p;ider in the Presbyterian 
Church, and is now serving as such in tiie church 
at Jlassillon. In politics, he is a Republican, and 
a stanch supporter of the principles of his party. 
The Rotch School farm, as above stated, comprises 
one hundred and eighty-live acres, over the man- 
agement of which our subject has complete super- 
vision. He is tlioroughly conversant with the de- 
tails of the work, and his indomitable euergy al- 
most invariably brings success to his efforts. 



_y 



•A li,TLLIAM NIESZ is an old resident of Stark 
\/iJ// bounty? with whose farming and stock- 
W^ raising interests he has been long con- 
nected. He was born in Canton Township, on the 
southwest quarter of section 30, May 28, 1822, 
and his interest in the welfare of this section and 
his public spirit are recognized and appreciated. 
He is tlie son of John Niesz, who was born in 
Pennsylvania, in 1798, and who, in turn, was the 
son of George Niesz, also a native of that State. 
The first representatives of the family came to 
America from Germany in Colonial times. 

Grandfather Niesz was a blacksmitli by trade, 
and in 1807, on coming to tliis State, made the 
journey overland and located in Canton Township. 
Here he entered a tract of land from the Govern- 
ment, on which he built a log cabin in the woods, 
and thei'e resided, engaged in its improvement and 
cultivation, until reaching his fiftieth year. His 
son, the father of our subject, was a lad of eight 
years when the journey was made to this State, 
and here he attended the old-fashioned log school- 
house, which was heated by a fire in a large, open 
fireplace and liglited by means of a hole in the 
wall, from which a log had been taken. All the 
schools were then conducted on the subscription 
plan and the teachers boarded around among the 



346 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



pupils. When attaining mature years, like his fa- 
ther, he was eugaged as a farmer and was more 
than ordinarily successful in his operations, own- 
ing at the time of his death a quarter-section of 
valuable land. During the last twenty-five years 
of iiis life, he was engaged in preaching in the 
United Brethren Church, and traveled for many 
years throughout this section as a missionary'. He 
did great good in this way and was instrumental 
in establishing a great man}' churches of tiiat de- 
nomination throughout this part of the State. He 
died in 1872, wiien seventy-four years of age. He 
was a Republican in politics, and no one knew him 
but to regard him with the highest esteem. 

The father of our subject was married to Mary 
Young, who was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 
1798. In 1805, she was brought by her parents to 
this count}' and was given as good an educat^ionas 
(•ould be obtained in the pioneer schools of this 
locality. By her union with Mr. Niesz were born 
the following children, of whom the two deceased 
were named, respectively, Elizabeth and Jacob. 
Those living are AVilliam, Mary, George, Barbara 
Ellen, John K., Sarah A., and Benjamin F. The wife 
and mother died when in her seventy-second year, a 
devoted member of the United Brethren Church. 

He whose name heads this sketch has always 
lived in this township, and obtained a fair educa- 
tion in the pioneer schools here and proved of 
great assistance to his father in developing his 
farm. It has been his good fortune to witness the 
entile transformation of this section and to see 
thriving towns and fine farms spring up where in 
his boyhood was nothing but an uninhabited 
wilderness. Since attaining manhood, he has largel}' 
helped in the work that has wrought this great 
change, and has placed himself among the most 
prosperous men of his calling in the county. 

When twenty-three years of age, our subject 
began in life for himself, and in 1844 was married 
to Miss Delilah Ronsli, who was born in Pennsyl- 
vania, and came to this State with her parents in 
1830. To them has been granted a family of six 
children, namelj': Mary A. (deceased), John F., 
Jacob N. (deceased), Uria, Artie and Delilah. The 
mother of these children died in 18.52 and IMr. 
Niesz was raarrietl to his second wife in 1853, She 



bore the name of Ann Eliza Neisz, and by their 
union were born four children: Frank B., Henrietta, 
William S. and Sarah E. She was a devoted mem- 
ber of the United Brethren Church, and died in 
18(J2. 

In 1844, Mr. Niesz located on his present farm, 
the onl}' improvements on which were a rude log 
cabin and fifty acres partially cleared. His i)resent 
estate of one hundred and sixty acres has been 
acquired by thrifty habits and i)ersistent industry. 
In addition to raising the cereals which are best 
adapted to the soil in his locality, he devotes some 
attention to the breeding of fine stock, keeping on 
his place twenty head of cattle, eight head of 
horses and numbers of sheep and hogs. His large 
frame residence, which was erected in 1878, is a 
model of its kind, and his commodious barn, which 
was built in 1854, is well adajitcd to the jnirposes 
for which it is used. 

C)ur subject is one of the most useful members 
of the United Brethren Church, in which body he 
has served as Class-leader and is now Trustee. He 
has been a liberal contributor toward its support, 
and the reality of his religious profession is shown 
in his daily conduct toward all about him. In 
politics, he is identified with the Republican party, 
and during the late war was Captain of a militia 
in Canton and Pike Townships. When he entered 
upon his career as a farmer, he had but a limited 
amount of this world's goods, but by economy and 
a judicious investment of his means, he accumu- 
lated i)ropertyand now occupies a position among 
the most substantial men of the county. 



ARTIN L. BEST, of Canton, claims Penn- 
sylvania as the State of his nativity. He 
was born in Fayette County, on the 16th 
of September, 1825, and his father. Chris- 
tian Best, was a native of the same localitj-. The 
latter was a leather finisher by trade and subse- 
quently was engaged in the milling business. He 
was killed by falling from a bridge on a vock cause- 



PORTRAIT AND ETOGRAPIIICAL RECORD. 



347 



waj-, liis death occurring the day succeeding the 
accident, Februarj' 12, 1839, in Carroll County, 
Ohio. He married Susanna Lutz, a native of 
Pennsylvania, and a daugliter of Martin Lutz, of 
German descent. Her death occurred in 1850. 
The family numbered nineciiildren, seven of whom 
grew to ijiature years, the otlier two having died 
in infancJ^ 

Our subject is the eldest son. His p-irenls re- 
moved to Carroll County, Ohio, when he was only 
three 3'ears old and he there spent his boj'hood 
and attended the common schools. When his edu- 
cation was completed, he began learning the trade 
of a tinner and coppersmitii, serving an appreutice- 
sliip of five years and six months with Tliomas H. 
Harbaugh, of Carlton, Ohio, He then traveled as 
a journeyman for two j'ears, after which he re- 
turned to Carroll County, and was united in mar- 
riage with Elizabeth Clark, daughter of William 
Clark. Unto them have been born four children: 
William A., C. V.; Eva D., wife of George Alt- 
house, and .1. G. 

Our subject and his wife began their domestic 
life in Jefferson, Ohio, where he worked at his 
trade for five j-ears. He then went to Steubenville 
and became manager of the works of Sharp it 
Craig, manufacturers in tin and copper and ex- 
tensive dealers in stoves, serving in that position 
for eighteen months. He then returned to Carl- 
ton and embarked in business in that line on his 
own account. In 185.5, he took charge of the tin 
and copper sliop of D. 11. Harman in Canton, con- 
tinuing that connection until the spring of 1859, 
when he formed a partnership with Henry Russell 
and bought out the tin shop of R. Little & Horn. 
To his business he then devoted his energies until 
1862, when he bought out the firm of Russell it 
Son and formed a i)artnership with John Luper. 
Six months later, Mr. Best sold his interest to his 
partner and established a jobbing shop, working 
principall}- for C. Aultman Ar Co. Subsequently, 
he began dealing in metal cornices and roofing 
and continued in that liue of trade until 1881, 
when he invented what is known as the Sun Vapor 
Burners, securing two patents on the same. The 
Sun Vapor Street Light Company was then organ- 
ized, L, L. it Jacob Miller being associated with 



our subject as partners. In 1888, the business was 
incorporated with a capital stock of $170,000, 
Jacob Miller being elected President; Levi Miller, 
Treasurer, and Martin Best, Vice-president and 
General Manager. On the death of Jacob Miller 
in 1889, his stock was purchased by James 
McNath, and Robert A. Miller bought that 
of L. L. IMiller, Mr. Best retaining his half-interest. 
The business was continued under this management 
for six months, when Mr. Best sold all of his shares, 
with one exception, to Robert A. Miller. Since 
that time, he has been a Director of the company 
and keeps a general oversight on the business. 

Other interests have occupied the attention of 
our subject. He is now a stockholder in the Arti- 
ficial Ice and Storage Company, of Canton, and in 
the Building and Loan Association. He started 
out in life at an earl}- age without capital, and to 
his own efforts is due the success he has achieved 
in life. In polities, he is a su|)porter of Republi- 
can principles and keeps himself well informed on 
the issues of the day, but has never been an office- 
seeker. 



'ii^^^i^l 



J 11 ONAS R. WALTER. None are more wor- 
I thy of mention in a biographical record 
l! than the men who have begun the battle of 
^;^J life at an early period, unarmed for the con- 
test but by their native wit, determined spirit and 
bodily vigor. One of this class is Jonas R. Wal- 
ter, who owns one of the best-regulated farms in 
Stark County. It consists of ninety acres in Tus- 
carawas Township, which are made remunerative by 
careful and intelligent cultivation, and have been 
supi)lied with all needful structures and many im- 
provements, both useful and beautiful. 

A native of Lancaster County, Pa., Mr. Walter 
was born November 8, 1812, to John and Cather- 
ine (Roup) Walter, natives, also, of the Keystone 
State, and of German descent. He accompanied 
his parents to Westmoreland County when quite 
young, and after a residence there for a short time 



348 



i'OETRAlT AXD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



moved with them to Allegheny County, wlieie he 
grew to man's estate. He attended school during 
the winter, working hard during the other seasons 
in order tliathe might obtain such an education as 
the public schools offered advantages for, and with 
the energ\' that lias characterized him through life, 
pursued an undeviating course. When reaching 
his eighteenth yeai-, he served an apprenticeship of 
three years to the baker's and confectioner's trade, 
which line of business he followed for some time. 

In 1836, in company with his parents, young 
"Walter came to this State, and for a few months 
made his home in Wayne County, after which he 
came with the family to Tuscarawas Township, 
this county, which has since been his home, and 
where the father and mother died. The parental 
familj' of eight children bore the respective names 
of Jonas, Abigail, Nicholas, David, Anna B., 
George, Elizabeth, and John R. 

At the bride's home, October 15, 1840, our sub- 
ject was married to Miss Susan Houck, who was 
born in Lebanon County, Pa., January 2.5, 1822. 
She was the daughter of Samuel and Catherine 
(Sprccher) Houck, natives of Pennsjlvania. She 
was orphaned by the death of her father when 
eight years of age, and after that event, in com- 
pany with her mother and other members of the 
family, came to Stark County and made her home 
in Tuscarawas Township, where she met and mar- 
ried our subject. Her mother, who was one of 
the pioneer settlers of this section, departed this 
life at a good old age in 1868. 

To Mr. and JNIrs. Walter have been born eight 
children, viz: Mary C.,John L.,AVilliam B.,Lydia, 
Anna B., Margaret A., Clinton, and George. Our 
subject located upon his present farm in the spring 
of 1865, and since that time has continued to give 
his attention to farming, and has now one of the 
best and most productive tracts in the township. 
As before stated, his property includes ninet}- acres, 
upon which he has erected a convenient and at- 
tractive dwelling, which has been the seat of a 
happy home life. 

He whose name introduces this sketch is self- 
made in all that the term implies, and has en- 
deavored to act the part of a good citizen, not 
only in his law-abiding conduct, but in his sym- 



pathy with, and aid in, the various movements pro- 
mulgated for the public good. He and his good 
wife are devoted members of the Lutheran Church, 
and endeavor in their daily lives to carry out the 
precepts of tiie (iolden Rule. In his political re- 
lations, Mr. AValter is a stanch Republican, and is 
greatly interested in the success of the party. 



^m- 



SAAC HENNINGER. Of the men who are 

successfully prosecuting agricultural work in 
Stark County, it m.ay well be said that their 
name is legion. One who is pleasantly located in 
Perry Township is he whose name introduces this 
sketch. He is a native of Dauphin County'. Pa., 
his birth occurring March 10, 1821, he being the 
son of Sebastian and Barbara Henninger, natives, 
respectively, of the Keystone State and Germany. 

Our subject grew to manhood in this State and 
county, his earliest recollections being of the cabin 
home built of logs, with puncheon floor and clap- 
board roof, and of a section of country which was 
not 3-et fully developed. He attended the pioneer 
schools, and determining to follow the occupation 
of an agriculturist, began work in that line when 
quite young. The lady to whom he was married 
in April, 1842, was Catherine Umholtz, also a na- 
tive of Pennsylvania. She became the mother of 
seven children, of whom four survive, viz.: Sarah, 
the wife of Lewis Smith; Amanda, ]Mis. William II. 
H. Martin; Susan, the wife of William Pitzcker; 
.-ind Isaac. Henry died while a soldier in the Union 
army. The names of the two other members 
of the family were Barbara and Catherine. 

The original of this sketch in 1865 took up his 
abode in this State, coining direct to this county, 
and locating in I'erry Township. His estate com- 
prises a quarter-section, which is well improved 
with the necessary machinery and stock and which 
is one of the lirst-class farms in all its appoint- 
ments. Mr. Henninger is a law-abiding citizen, 
and one who in social life is friendly and obliging, 
while in his home lie is considerate and shows that 



n 






/!2yp-'iyL--u 




POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



351 



he appreciates the good qualities of his compan- 
ion. He receives a merited degree of respect 
from those with whom he associates, and iiis repu- 
tation is in accord witli his deserts. 

In religious affairs, our subject is a member of 
the German Reformed Church, in wliicli body ho 
lias occupied the positions of Deacon and Elder. 
Allhougii ills early advantages were not equal to 
tliose furnished tlie youth of this daj' and age, 
he is a man of intelligence, having read and 
tliought to good purpose, and is held in high 
repute as one who is honorable in liis relations in 
life and is deserving of commendation for tlie en- 
terprise which he has displayed in his affairs. 



I OBERT S. AVARAVICK. The traveler in 
Stark County will find no farm home bet- 
-\ ter deserving of notice than that of Mr. 
^ '^ Warwick. It is located in Sugar Creek 
Township and comprises two hundred and twen- 
t3'-five acres of land, tlioroughl}- tilled and care- 
fully managed, while the buildings upon it are un- 
excelled in the county. Thei'e is a handsome resi- 
dence, besides which a large barn, stable, granarj', 
and other structures fltted for various uses are also 
to be found here. The best stock is kept upon the 
place and everything is in keeping with the pro- 
gressive ideas and the energetic nature of the 
owner. All this comfort and wealth have been won 
by Mr. Warwick at the expense of hard and con- 
tinuous labor, close calculation and prudent ex- 
penditure. His early struggles, however, did not 
make him penurious or morose; on the contrai'y, 
he is a genial, benevolent man, open-handed and 
public-spirited. 

Our subject, who is a native of the North of 
Ireland, was born, December 25, 1833, to Robert 
and Mary (McConnell) Warwick, both natives of 
Ireland. Robert S. remained in his native coun- 
try until reaching his seventeenth year, when, hav- 
ing heard much of the fortunes to be gained in the 
New World, he set sail from Liverpool and after a 

17 



voyage of twentj^-one days, landed on American 
slioies and later came to this county. He had been 
given an excellent education in his native land, 
and on coming to the llnited States attended school 
for a time, and now keeps himself thoroughly in- 
formed upon events of interest. 

The father of our subject was a prominent mer- 
chant in Ireland, and his uncle, the Rev. William 
Warwick, was Rector in the Established Episcopal 
Church in the North of Ireland. On making the 
voyage to this countr}', our subject was accompa- 
nied by his brother, the Hon. J. G. Warwick, of 
Massillon, who at the time of his demise, August 14, 
1892, was representing the old McKinley District in 
Congress. For seven years after making his advent 
into this county, he of whom we write engaged in 
the dry-goods business in Massillon, in company 
with his brother just mentioned, in which branch of 
trade they were very prosperous. After abandon- 
ing the mercantile business, Mr. Warwick, in 1862, 
came in the fall of that year to Sugar Creek Town- 
ship and purchased the property upon which he 
has resided since that time. His estate is very val- 
uable, and upon all matters pertaining to agricul- 
ture he keeps thoroughly posted, and his influence 
both as a farmer and citizen is great. 

The wife of our subject, whom he married in 
1861, was formerly Miss Delila Watson, a native 
of Waj'ue County, this State, and a daughter of 
.Tames and Susannah Watson. The three children 
born of their union are: .Tohn, James W. and Sam- 
uel R. Mrs. Warwick, who was a most estimable 
Iad3', and held in high esteem in the community, 
departed this life in May, 1875. She was a con- 
sistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
while her husband is identified with the English 
Episcopal Church. He is a modest, unassuming man, 
of considerable intelligence and of earnest nature, 
and as a strong advocate of schools, has been fre- 
quently solicited to hold oHi(;e on the Board, but 
has refused to accept any public (wsition. He is 
Democratic in his political belief, and his charac- 
ter and ways are such as to win friends wherever 
he goes, and he is well spoken of on all sides. 

A number of yeai-s ago, Mr. AVarwick was a can- 
didate from the State Senatorial District in wiiich 
he resides, but was defeated by his opponent. Prof, 



352 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Hartshorn. In Mr. Warwick we see a man 
who, solely by his own efforts, has made what 
he to-day possesses. Steadily he has worked his 
wa}- upward to a position of wealth and aflluence, 
and has laid by for himself a comfortable compe- 
tence. His example might well be followed by 
young men who, like himself, have no capital with 
wiiicli to begin life, but by properly using the tal- 
ents which Nature has given them they will suc- 
ceed, if the}' conform to those princijiles which 
have characterized the life of Mr. Warwick — in- 
dustry and enterprise. 



■lR4\EV. JOSIAH A. GRIMIM, the most efficient 
l^r^ and popular pastor of the Evangelical 
^\L Church, on Stark Circuit, Pittsburgh, is a 
native of Stark Count}', Oliio, being born in 
Washington Township on the 12th of November, 
1837. His parents, Andrew and Anna (Risley) 
Grimm, were natives of Stark County, Ohio, also. 
Andrew Grimm resided in Washington until his 
deatli, May 25, 1865, when fifty-five years of age, 
and was a very successful farmer of his section. 
Ills wife followed him to the grave on the 26th of 
June, 1874, when sixty-two years of age. The 
grandfather, Joseph Grinnn, was a resident of 
Jefferson County, Ohio, and had two brothers who 
made permanent settlements in that count}', their 
descendants residing there now. Joseph Grimm, 
however, moved to Stark County and there reared 
his famil}'. 

The gentleman whose name heads tiiis sketch 
was the eldest of a farail}- of nine children, seven 
of whom grew to mature years and six still living, 
as follows: Mrs. Catiierine Huford resides in Mar- 
shall County, Ind., on a farm; George is a farmer 
of Van Wert County, C>hio; Mrs. Mary Scott re- 
sides on a farm in Lexington Township, Stark 
County, Oliio; and Mrs. R.achel Keller resides in 
Erie, Pa. Levi Grimm was also a minister in the 
Evangelical Church and labored in Indiana, He 



died in Stark County when twentj'-two years of 
age, and is buried at Salem Ceraeter}', Washington 
Township, this county. He was a single man. 
Sarah A., wife of Rev. Frederick Ellenburgher, a 
• minister of the Evangelical Association of the 
Pittsburgh Conference, resides in Du Bois, Clear- 
field County, Pa. 

The early life of our subject was passed on a 
farm and in attending tlic district school, where 
he received a good practical education. Being 
possessed of a more than usually bright mind and 
a very retentive memoiy, he began te.achingat the 
age of eighteen, and about that time he became 
identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
although his father was a member of tlie United 
Brethren Church. His youtliful days gave a fore- 
cast of what his life's work was likely to be, for 
after he began teaching, he would attend the Mt. 
Union College during the summer months. After 
remaining with the Methodist Episcopal Church 
for four years, he united with the Evangelical 
Association and received a license to exhort. He 
served in that capacity in W.ashington Township 
about three 3'ears, and in 1867 received his license 
to preach. He first took a position as assistant on 
Stark Circuit, where he is now located. He is a 
forcible and eloquent speaker and is evidently 
deeply interested in the noble work in which he is 
engaged. 

On the 12th of April, 1866, he wedded Miss 
Mercy R. Scott, a sister of Jonathan Scott, who 
married our subject's sister Mary. Mrs. Grimm 
was born in Alliance, Ohio, November 13, 1844, to 
the union of Isaac and Mary (Cassidy) Scott. In 
1868, Mr. Grimm took charge sis assistant of Clear- 
field Circuit, in Clearfield County, Pa., and after 
laboring there one j'ear, took charge at Somerset 
Circuit, Somerset County, Pa., for two years. 
After this, he went to Johnstown, Cambria County, 
Pa., as first missionary and was minister for three 
years. He was the organizer of the church in 
Kernville, in Johnstown proper, and while there, 
he was instrumental in collecting funds from 
various places to build the church. After this, he 
served as Collector in what were then the districts 
of Pittsburgh, Alleghany and Somerset, and col- 
lected about $3,000 for that purpose during those 



PORTKAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



353 



three years. He preached regularly at the places, 
Jolinstown, Conemaugh and South Fork, and occa- 
sionally at other places where churches were 
started. He organized the first church at the first 
tiuee named places, also organized one at Ben's 
Creek, eight miles from Johnstown. Later, he 
was appointed Presiding Elder in Somerset Dis- 
trict, and continued to reside in Johnstown. 
Afterward, he removed to Somerset, remained there 
eighteen montlis, l3ut still had charge of the district 
as Presiding Elder. About tins time, the name of 
tlie district was changed to that of Johnstown, but 
included the same territory. It remained tluisone 
year, when it was changed to Johnstown and Alle- 
ghany District. Mr. Grimm was given charge of 
Alleghany District, and as there was a debt of 
$7,000, he was able to pay the most of this off. 
lie thus served for six years as Presiding Elder, 
and tuen moved to Canton, Ohio, where he was 
Presiding Elder of Pittsburgh District for four 
years. He subsequently moved back to Johns- 
town as Presiding Elder, but on account of the 
poor health of his wife he resigned and moved to 
Mahoning County, where he took charge of lighter 
work in order to give his wife more attention. 
Three years later, after serving in North Lima 
cliarge, he moved to East Liberty, Summit County, 
and continued there in charge of Summit Circuit 
for three years. In the spring of 1891, he came to 
his present home, where he preached his first ser- 
mon, and here he has resided since. 

To his marriage were born five interesting chil- 
dren, as follows: Elmer Ellsworth, born October 
20, 1867, in AVashington Townsliip. Stark County, 
Ohio, was graduated in tlie commercial course and 
penmanship, at Mt. Union, Ohio. He was mar- 
ried on the 6th of Februarj', 1890, to Miss Sadie 
Cramer, of Myersville, Summit County, Ohio, and 
they have one cliild, Olive Jay, wliosc birth occur- 
red on the 24th of September, 1891. Royal, born 
at Somerset, Pa., on the 18th of May, 1870. is a 
natural artist. From early boyhood he dis- 
played much genius in that line, and when in Ma- 
honing County, Ohio, he took lessons in crayon 
work. He is now learning watch-making in Can- 
ton, Ohio. William A. died in infancy; Edilli was 
born in Johnstown, Pa., January 1, 1878; and 



Howard was born in Canton and died in Johns- 
town. Mr. Grimm has ever been a Republican 
and las first Presidential vote was cast for Abra- 
ham Lincoln in 1860. His fatlier at one time was 
a Whig, but later espoused the principles of the 
Republican party. 



&ENRY MASE is a well-known and influen- 
) tial citizen of vStark County and bears a 
prominent part in the various affairs of 
Bethlehem Township, where he is at pres- 
ent residing. He is social, benevolent and ener- 
getic, and is well known as a man of good judgment 
and possessing that personal character which has 
won a high degree of respect from those with 
whom he has been associated. 

A native of Pennsylvania, our suljject was born 
in Lebanon County, November 4, 1821, to Michael 
and Christina (Spangler) Mase, who were also na- 
tives of that State and county and of German de- 
scent. The father of our sulaject early in the '30s em- 
igrated with his wife and family of two children to 
this county, coming overland with teams, the 
journey consuming seventeen da^'S. They first 
located in the northern portion of Sugar Creek 
Township, making their home in a rude log cai)in, 
where the elder Mr. Mase purchased ninety-five 
acres of land, thirty acres of which had been par- 
tially improved. Tliere tliey continued to reside 
for four years, when tiiey again took up the line 
of march, and came to Bethlehem Township. The 
fatlier worked perseveringly to redeem his jiroijerty 
from tlie wilderness and at his death, which oc- 
curred in 1859, had a good estate. His estimable 
wife, who survived him a number of years, died in 
1888, having attained the advanced age of ninetj' 
years. 

Of the parental family of four children, two are 
living, our subject and iiis brother Jonathan; 
those deceased are John and Samuel. The fa- 
ther of our subject was an influential member 
of the German Reformed Church, which bodv 



354 



PORTRAIT A^'D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



be had served for many yeai-s as Elder. He was a 
tailor by tratle and was at all times ready and will- 
ing to contribute toward the upbuilding of his 
adopted county. In his political relations, he voted 
with the Democratic party. 

Henry Mase, at an early age, attended school 
and received all educational advantages possible 
in those days, when schoolhouses were rude and the 
information imparted in theui was meagre indeed. 
Ohio at that time possessed none of the advanced 
ideas that at the present day make it a popular 
place for educational matters. Our subject has 
always followed the life of an agriculturist, and his 
enviable position in the community is due to his 
own unaided efforts, as he was early compelled to 
commence the battle of life on his own account. 
Adversity developed the sterling qualities of his 
character, and while acquiring for himself a cora- 
petencv, he has at the same time assisted in the 
development of the resources of his township and 
county. 

The marriage of Mr. Mase occurred January 13, 
1848, at wbich time Miss .Sarah A. Kern became 
his wife. She was born March 31. 1829. and is the 
daughter of John and Christina (Boughman) Kern, 
natives of Pennsj-lvania who emigrated to this 
county in the '20s and located in Sugar Creek 
Township, where thej- resided for many years. 
Later in life, they removed to Adams Count\', Ind., 
where the father died in March, 1875. The mother, 
who is still residing there, h.as attained the ad- 
vanced age of eighty-six years. Mr. and Mi-s. 
Kern were the parents of nine children, five of 
whom are living, namely: ilrs. Mase; Elmina, Mrs. 
Daniel Raling; Philip, AYashington and Adam. 

The three children comprised in the family of 
our subject .and his wife are Ehnina, Mrs. "William 
Stamm; Amos B., Treasurer of Bethlehem Town- 
ship; and Christina, wife of Levi R. Lasli. Our sub- 
ject took up his abode on his [)resent estate of one 
hundred and ninety-nine acres in the spring of 1859, 
and on the death of his father received his portion 
of the home farm. His place is well cultivated and 
t>eai's all the improvements which are to be found 
on fii-st-class estates. 

Mr. .Mase h:is been called \\\x)n to serve as a 
Director on the .School Board, and while the in- 



cumbent of that position rendered much efficient 
service. He is a devoted member of the German 
Reformed Church, and as an active member of that 
denomination h.ns served as its Elder. In his po- 
litical views, he favors Democratic principles, and 
casts a straight ballot for his party. The son of 
our subject, Amos Mase, is a prominent and enter- 
prising young man and occu}iies the position of 
Treasurer of Bethlehem Township, to which oHlce 
he was elected in the spring of 1891; he was born 
.September 13, 1850, and married Miss Esther 
Baker, daughter of Henry and Catherine Baker, by 
whom he became the father of a son, Henry C. 
Following in the footsteps of his father, he is also 
a Democrat in politics and for a number of yeai-s 
has been an agent for agricultural implements. 



€i^^l'^|^J^^il 



\l| ACOB WAGONER, foreman of the machine 
department of the Massillon Bridge AVorks, 
^— ^ and one of the finest m.achinists of the city, 
'f^fJ is a native of Perry Township, this county, 
born on the 18th of September, 1841, two miles east 
of Massillon. His father. Christian AA'agoner was a 
native of the Keystone State, born near Shippens- 
burgh in 1806. and the grandfather. John AA'ag- 
oner. was also a native of that State, where he fol- 
lowed the occupation of a farmer. About the year 
1812. he brought his family to Ohio, and was one 
of the fii-st settlers of Perry Township, .Stark 
County. He entered land where the father of our 
subject now lives and tilled the soil until death 
claimed him. 

Christian AA'agoner w.is but six years of age 
when he came with his parents to Ohio, and nearly 
all his recollections are of his adopted State. He 
assisted his father in improving the wild land he 
had entered, and now resides on one hundred acres 
of this land. In politico, he is a Democrat, and In 
religion is a member of the German Reformed 
Church. He .assisted in l)uilding the fii-st Re- 
formed Church in M.assillon. His wife, formerly 
Miss Susan Oberlin, was a native of Greenville, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



355 



Darke County, Ohio, and her father was a soldier 
of the War of 1812. She passed away in 186C. 
Six of the nine children born to this estimable 
couple are now living. 

At an early age our subject became f.-xiniliar with 
the duties of the farm, and when fourteen he began 
clerking for his brother-in-law, !Marks Joseph, in 
I'niontowii. where he remained one year. He then 
returned to the farm, and remained there until 
twenty-two years of age, after which he began 
working for Russell it Co. In the fall of 1863, he 
went to Wooster, and was emplo3'ed in Barrett's 
machine shop, where he remained for eighteen 
months, after which he returned to Massillon. He 
was here employed in the Harmon Shriver Coal 
Bauks for six mouths, tlien with the Sablin Agri- 
cultural Implement Works, and was with other 
lirms for eight or nine years. Xiiev this, he was in 
the AVillow Bank Coal Mines, engaged in keeping 
the engine in repairs, and subsequcnth' was with 
Snyder Bros. In 1875, he was employed bj- tlie Mas- 
sillon Bridge Company, and first ran both an engine 
and a lallie. Later, he operated the latter alone, and 
in 1882 he became foreman of the machine shop. 
He is one of the oldest and one of the very best 
machinists iu the city, and thoroughly' understands 
his business. 

yiv. Wagoner was first married in Brookfield, 
Ohio, in the year 1863, to Miss Mary Snyder, 
daughter of Fred H. Snjder (sec sketch), and 
she died in Massillon, leaving four children, as 
follows: Cora, now Mrs. Austin, of this city; 
Anna; Charles, clerking for the Bee Hive in 
this city; and Ella, at home, a graduate of the 
High School. ]Mr. Wagoner's second marriage oc- 
curred on December 20, 1883. to Miss Florence 
Dangler, a native of ^Massillon, and the daughter 
of Isaac Dangler, who was a native of Reading, Pa. 
Her grandfatlier, Samuel Dangler, was born in 
Berks County, Pa., and followed the pursuit of 
farming. He served in the War of 1812 for a 
number of years, and in 1821 came to Stark County, 
Ohio, wliere he entered and improved land. He 
married Miss Sarah Bowen, also a native of Berks 
County, Pa., and of .Scotch descent. Isaac Dangler 
was reared iu Stark County-, and has been engaged 
m the dry-goods business iiere for years. He is 



now employed as clerk for Humburger & Co. His 
wife's maiden name was Burr. Mr. Wagoner is 
a member of the Order of American Mechan- 
ics, and in politics, is a Republican. In his relig- 
ious views, he is a Presbyterian, having been Trus- 
tee in that church for some time. 



-^ 



ARON P. GOULD. The original of this 
&iU\\ sketch was born in Aurora, Portage County, 
Is. Ohio, August 24, 1855, and is the son of 
1^/ John W. and Eliza (Post) Gould, the 

former a native of (iuilford, Vt, and the latter of 
Saybrook, Conn. The mother was a daughter of 
Aaron Post and came to Twinsburgh, Summit 
County, Ohio, in 1821, having traveled the entire 
distance from Connecticut with ox-teams, wiiicli 
journey consumed a period of six weeks. The 
fatlier of Mr. Gould came to Ohio in 1837 and set- 
tled at Twinsburgh. He followed the occupation 
of a farmer until J883, when he retired from active 
life and now resides at Kent, Ohio. 

By this marriage were born two sons and two 
daughters, of whom our subject is third in order of 
birth. His youthful days were passed in his native 
county. Up to nineteen years of age, he divided 
his time between attending tlie public schools and 
working on a farm. At the age of nineteen, he 
went to Akron, Ohio, and for several years studied 
architecture under Jacob Snyder. Finding this 
occupation too sedentary, he returned home and 
worked his father's farm for a year. Then he en- 
tered the employ of Aultman, Miller ct Co.,oC Ak- 
ron, Ohio, and remained with them until the fol- 
lowing year, when he accepted a position with C. 
Aultman & Co., of Canton, where he w.as employed 
for three seasons. He then carried on a contract- 
ing and building business, being associated with 
Levi Crum. 

In 1883, Mr. Gould formed a co-partnership with 
H. R. Spencer and acquired a one-half interest in 
a surgical chair invention, organizing tlie Canton 
Surgical Chair Company. In jMarcIi, 1887, this 



356 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



was merged into the Canton Surgical and Dental 
Chair C'ompan,v, Mr. Gould having charge of its 
mechanical department. 

On the 22d of April, 1879, Mr. Gould was united 
in marriage to Miss Emma Walcutt, daughter of 
Elias and Frances (Zollars) Walcutt, and a native 
of Stark Country. One son, Herbert A., blesses the 
union. Mr. and Mrs. Gould are members of 
the First Methodist Episcopal Church and have a 
very pleasant home at No. 45 North Walnut Street. 

Mr. Gould comes of one of the oldest families in 
the United States, his ancestors, John Gould and 
wife, coming from Towcester, England, to the 
Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635, and settling in 
Charleston, Mass. His great-grandfather, Thomas 
Gould, was born in AVorcester, Mass., October 3, 
1771, and at the age of two years, with his parents, 
removed to Guilford, Vt. He was a farmer by occu- 
pation. Mr. Gould's great-great-grandfather, Ste- 
phen, was born at Sutton, Mass., September 18, 
1748, and was a manufacturer of potash. He be- 
longed to the Revolutionary army and was in the 
battles of Lexington and Concord, being the son 
of Thomas Gould, Jr., who was born at Reading, 
Mass., in 1723, and who lost his life in 1755, in the 
eastern expedition against the French in Nova 
Scotia. Thomas Gould, Jr., was a great-great-grand- 
son of the first ancestor of the family in America, 
the original of this sketch being of the ninth gener- 
ation in the United States. On the maternal side 
our sul)ject's ancestor, Stephen Post, came to this 
country from England in 1C33 and was one of the 
original founders of Hartford, Conn. 

Aaron P. Gould, the subject of this sketch, has 
not been idle in supplying the demands for me- 
chanical devices and helps to the surgical and 
dental professions, and in this connection a sketch 
of the growth and development of the Canton 
Surgical and Dental Chair Company, of which Mr. 
Gould is the most cRicient and worthy President, 
is here in order. 

This company had its inception in a very hum- 
ble way, in the fall of 1883, when Mr. Gould 
bought a one-half interest in a surgical chair in- 
vention and organized the Canton Surgical Chair 
CompanJ^ Immediately he set about to change 
and improve this invention, and the result was an 



entirely new chair from the invention purchased 
and which became known to the profession as the 
Canton Surgical Chair. 

The introduction of this chair to the profession 
was received by them with such favor that the 
company was encouraged to proceed with its 
experimenting, and after ^-ears of trials and tri- 
umphs on the part of Mr. Gould, the}' were en- 
abled to offer to the profession that beautiful 
and faultless piece of mechanism, the Yale Svu'gi- 
cal Chair of to-day. 

In 1887, Mr. Gould succeeded in organizing a 
stock company known as the Canton Surgical and 
Dental Chair Com|)any, with several thousand dol- 
lars' capital stock, which enabled him to more ex- 
tensively put his chairs and other inventions into 
general use, and this marked an epoch in the rise 
and progress of one of Canton's most substantial 
industries. The Yale Chair, by its superior merit, 
was soon recognized by the medical profession as 
embodying all that is perfect in the surgeon's 
chair. 

Another chair u])on which this company has 
gained a world-wide reputation is the Improved 
Gould Dental Chair, which was invented by Mr. 
Gould and is the most popular dental chair in the 
world to-day, being used in every civilized coun- 
try of the globe. The largely increasing sales of 
these two chairs each ^-ear show that the efforts of 
this company have not been in vain. 

January 30. 1892, their entire factory on East 
Seventh .Street was destroyed by fire. They im- 
mediately set about to find a place in which to 
temi)orarily manufacture their goods. They were 
so successful that in fifteen days after the fire they 
were filling orders for all goods. Immediate steps 
were taken to rebuild, land was purchased, and a 
much largerand more convenient plant wascrected. 

The new ottices and works are located at the 
corner of East Eighth and South AValnut Streets, 
where over fifty men find steady einplojment. 
The building is four stories with basement and attic; 
it has thirty-five feet frontage on Walnut Street 
and two hundred feet on Eighth Street, and is 
equipped with tlie most modern tools and machin- 
ery for their various manufactures. 

This company has added to its line of chairs 



POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECOED. 



357 



fountain dental spittoons, dental engines, and other 
surgical and dental supplies, the inventions, in 
whole or in part, of Mr. Gould. 

The rapid growth and substantial development 
of the Canton Surgical and Dental Chair Companj- 
reflects the highest credit on the ability and in- 
domitable enterprise of its officers. From a small 
beginning, they are now one of the leading surg- 
ical and dental chair manufacturers in the country. 

The following officers were elected in May, 1887, 
and still hold office: Aaron P. Gould, President 
and Superintendent; E. W. Gould, Vice-president; 
Albert Iloeffer, Secretar3'; .lolin C. Skelton, Treas- 
urer; and Joim Karrer, Assistant, Sui)erintendent. 



\|t_^ ON. K. N. JOHNSON, who is now living 
r jji retired in Alliance, was born in Mt. Union, 
'A^' Stark County, Ohio, May 22, 1826, and is 
{^) a son of E. N. and Dorcas (Moffatt) John- 
son, tlie former a native of Faj'ette Count3-. Pa., 
and the lattei' of Washington County, Pa. They 
are of English and Irish descent, respectively. 
The ancestors on both sides were fai'mers and be- 
came wealthy people. The maternal grandfatlier 
was born on the Emerald Isle, and died in Wash- 
ington County, Pa., after amassing quite a fortune. 
The father of our subject was reared in Wash- 
ington County upon a farm, and in 1818 came to 
Stark County, Ohio. The following j'ear', he re- 
moved his family to the new home, tiie journey 
being made in the old-fashioned moving wagon. 
Mr. Johnson became one of the pioneers of Wash- 
ington Township, and in the midst of tlie forest 
built a rough log cabin, in whicli he made his 
home for a number of years, or until he could af- 
ford a better residence. This farm had been en- 
tered bj- his father, Caleb Johnson, in 1806, and 
was transferred to the son in 1820. These two 
deeds, among the oldest in the county, are the 
only two ever drawn for this farm, and they are 
still in the possession of the family. E. N. John- 
son, Sr., served as Justice of the Peace in Stark 



County for over a quarter of a century, and was 
also appointed and served as Surveyor in an early 
day. In politics, he was a Whig. Ho was a very 
influential and prominent citizen. His death oc- 
curred in September, 1889, al the very advanced 
age of one hundred 3ears, five months and twenty 
days. 

Our subject is the fourth in order of birth in a 
familj' of eleven children, ten of whom are now 
living. He was reared upon a farm, and attended 
the public schools until eighteen years of age, 
when he entered Marlborough College. He was 
afterward a student in Mt. Union College, and 
was subsequentl}' employed as a teacher in that 
institute for several j'ears. He then went East, 
and established what is now kiipwn as the South- 
western Normal College, a State institution, which 
is located in AVashington County, Pa., on the farm 
of his grandfather. This was in 1853, and he was 
its I'rincipal for eight years. On account of fail- 
ing health, Mr. Johnson then returned to Ohio, 
and entered the Law School of Cleveland, from 
which he was graduated. It was his full intention 
to practice that j)rofession, but on returning home 
he was prevailed upon to accept a position in the 
Alliance school, where he and his wife taught for 
one year. 

Mr. Johnson was married in 1853 to Miss Jane 
Scott, a native of Scotland, and a well-educated 
and cultivated lady. She is a teacher by profes- 
sion, and was associated with Mr. Johnson in all 
his school life. They have one son, James W., 
who has been in the Government employ for sev- 
eral years. He is a graduate of the National Uni- 
versity Law School, his diploma being conferred 
upon him b^' President Arthur in 1884. He is 
now in the Interior Department, taking census. 

On leaving the Alliance school, Mr. Johnson 
was nominated and elected to the State Legislature, 
and so well did he discharge the duties of that 
office that he was re-elected, and served for two 
terms, or four years. He then removed to his farm, 
and lived practically retired for some time. Sub- 
sequentl}-, he was appointed by Secretary Sherman 
to fill a position in the United States Treasury 
Office, and while in Washington filled various 
Government positions. He was in the War De- 



358 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



paitment for two and a half jears, and was made 
Special Examiner in the United States Pension 
Office, filling that position for more than four 
years. Since that time, Mr. Johnson has lived 
practically retired. He has acquired a comfortable 
competencj', which enables him to lay aside all 
business cares, and rest in the enjoyment of the 
fruits of his former labor. 

Socially', Mr. Johnson is a member of the Inde- 
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, and his wife be- 
longs to the Presbyterian Church. He is alike 
true to every public and private trust, and when 
filling public offices he discharges his duties with 
promptness and fidelity, to the credit of himself 
and the satisfaction of his constituents. He is a 
highly respected citizen of this community. 



W OUIS A. KOONS. The mercantile estab- 
I (^ lishment par excellence of the city of Mas- 
/I^V sillon is the spacious and handsome empor- 
ium belonging to Louis A. Koons, located ver\' 
eligibl3' at No. 9 Main Street. It is in all respects 
a leading and well-appointed establishment, where 
is alwaj's displa3'ed an unusually fine and very 
comi)lete assortment of everything in the lines in- 
dicated, everj- department being replete with the 
latest novelties. The prices quoted, too, are rock- 
bottom figures, 3-et no inferior goods are allowed 
to be placed in stock, patrons being assured of re- 
ceiving honest value and satisfactory treatment in 
this deservedly popular store. He has been estab- 
lished in his present place of business since 1888, 
and does a jobbing, wholesale and retail trade. 
Four floors are now occupied, each 17x125 feet, 
and for the successful liandling of his goods and 
for the accommodation of his patrons he has an 
elevator. Two rooms are devoted to the retail 
trade. "The Bazar" is the largest house of the 
kind in the county, and one of the ver^' largest in 
the State. 

Mr. Koons was born in this county, March 27, 



1858, to Jacob and Catherine (Ruckenbroad) 
Koons, the former of whom was liorn in German}- 
and there passed the life of a farmer until his re- 
moval to America at the age of eighteen vears. 
He located in Massillon, and began working in the 
old machine shop of Hart & Brown, continuing 
until his death, in 1868, at the age of forty-eight 
3-ears. He was an expert machinist, and possessed 
many worthy traits of character, but was of a 
quiet, retiring disposition. He was an earnest 
member of St. John's Evangelical Church, which 
he helped to build up. His wife was born near 
Columbiana, Ohio, and was a daughter of Rev. 
Michael Ruckenbroad, a native of Wurtemberg, 
Germany. When a young man he came to Amer- 
ica, and followed his trade of shoemaker in Penn- 
sylvania, afterward settling in Columbiana Count}', 
Ohio, when it was a wilderness, entering and im- 
proving a farm there. In addition to this, he 
worked at his trade, raised flax and spun and wove 
his own cloth. He was a Deacon of the Dunkard 
Church and organized a society of that denomina- 
tion in Columbiana County, preaching in an old 
log sclioolhouse that was located on his land. He 
died in Massillon at the age of eighty-four years. 
The paternal grandfather lived and died in Ger- 
many. The mother of Louis A. Koons resides in 
Massillon, and is a member of the Christian Church. 
Her son has in his possession an old Bible that was 
printed in Germany in 1629. 

Louis A. Koons was one of four sons and four 
daughters born to his parents, six of wiiom lived 
to maturity and five are now living. He attended 
the common and grammar schools of Massillon 
until the death of his father, then, at the early age 
of eight years, he was compelled to begin life's 
battle for himself. At the age of twelve j-ears, he 
entered the employ of Kelley it Pepper, brickmeu, 
remaining with them two seasons, attending school 
during the winter months. Although the labor 
was quite iiard for one of his years, he showed 
much pluck and perseverance and kept at his work, 
receiving fifty cents a day for his services. AVhen 
fourteen, he began clerking in a grocery store, but 
two years later became an apprentice of the Rus- 
sell Compan}' as machinist, and in two years' time 
had thorouglily learned the trade. He soon after 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



359 



entered the employ of H. A. Kitzrailler, a grocer 
and dealer in queensware, and during the three 
years that he remained in liis employ he obtained 
a thorough insight into how business affairs were 
conducted, and decided to continue in tliat line of 
work. After being in the employ of Powell & 
James for six years, he began business for himself 
in the spring of 1882, dealing in stoves, hardware, 
house-furnishing goods, etc. 

Although he began at the bottom of the ladder 
it was not two years before he had the largest 
business of the kind in the cit}-. lie w.as then in 
partnership with L. P. Yost and W. F. Koons, but 
later sold out to them, and purchased the Five and 
Ten Cent store at Massillon, which was a ver^^ 
small establishment, and in its conduct was asso- 
ciated with Mr. Ileiuinger, the firm being known as 
Heininger & Koons. They did ))usiness in a room 
17x60 feet until .January, 1885, at which time 
they started a branch store at Canal Dover, which 
Mr. Heininger took as his share of tlie business. Mr. 
Koons gradually increased his stock until it has 
assumed its present m.agnificent proportions. In 
1891, he was an incorporator of the Union Cigar 
Company and was made its general manager and 
superintendent. This factory is at No.. 1 East 
Main Street, and has a ver^' extensive business, 
keeping two men busily emplo3'ed on the road. 
Mr. Koons was the first man to propose the Mas- 
sillon Building St Loan Association and was one 
of its chief organizers and is now a leading Di- 
rector. It was established March 22, 1888, and 
for some time Mr. Koons was its Secretary, but he 
was compelled to resign the position on account 
of the big business he was doing. He was 
married in Canal Fulton in December, 1880, to 
Miss Caroline Morgan, who was born in Dowlais, 
Wales, a daughter of Thomas Morgan, wiio came 
to Canal Fulton and kept an hotel there. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Koons two children have lieen born: 
Louis A., Jr., and Thomas A. 

Mr. Koons has served in numerous minor official 
positions, such as Township Clerk, etc., and in 
1891 was Clerk of Massillon, but resigned this 
position to look after his business affairs. He has 
been a prominent candidate several times for Mayor 
but has withdrawn in favor of his friends. He is 



a true-blue Republican, and on several occasions 
has been a delegate to county and State conven- 
tions. He has been Chairman of the city Repub- 
lican Central Committee, was a member of the 
Count}' Central Committee, and is President of the 
McKinley Club. Sociall}', he belongs to the An- 
cient Free and Accepted Masons, the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, 
the Sexanual League, is a Counselor of the Chosen 
Friends, a member of the Protective Home Circle, a 
cliarter member of the Junior Order of Meclianics, 
and last, but not least, is Trustee, Treasurer, and 
an earnest member of the Christian Ciiurch. He 
is a wide-awake man of business, and is an active 
competitor for legitimate Irade in his line, and is 
regarded as representing one of the rising business 
houses of the State. 



ALLEN RUSSELL, of the firm of Russell 
it Co., at Massillon, was born in Sutton, 
Caledonia County, Vt., May 7, 1833. He 
is the son of Cyrus and Louisa (Stratton) 
Russell, of whom further mention is made in the 
sketch of Joseph K. Russell, presented elsewhere 
in this volume. From his childhood days, it was 
apparent that this son, the youngest of eleven 
children in the parental family, possessed the same 
sturdy enterprise and progressive spirit which 
characterized iiis older brotiiers. 

The boyhood of Mr. Russell was varied b}' few 
incidents of special importance, and he was em- 
ployed in the usual manner of farmer lads in quiet 
countiy homes. As soon as he w.as large enough 
to reach the plow, he commenced to aid in tilling 
the soil, and his life thereafter was a busy one, 
with few of tiie pleasures which the boj'S of the 
present generation enjoy, and few of the advanta- 
ges now within the reach of the poorest cliild. 
His father going to Connecticut in 1862, he as- 
sumed entire charge of the farm, of whicii he had 
for man}- years before had the supervision. He 
purchased the old homestead, adding to its acreage 



360 



PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAIHICAL RECORD. 



until it consisted of one hundred and fifty acres, 
and was conceded to be one of the most progres- 
sive young agriculturists of the State. The first 
mower ever used in Caledonia Count}' was 
shipped there in ISGl from IMassillon, and was one 
of the first manufactured by Russell Bros., at that 
place. It was purchased by our subject and was 
regarded with great interest and curiosity by his 
neighbors. In addition to geneial farming, he 
was engaged extensivel}- in dealing in stock, in 
which he met with success. 

In the spring of 1865, Mr. Russell sold the farm 
and came West to Massillon, where he entered the 
employ of his brothers, and was engaged in over- 
seeing the shipment of repairs. In 1870, he be- 
came a member of the firm of Russell Sc Company, 
to which he still belongs. Three years after be- 
coming a partner, he removed to Indianapolis .and 
there took charge of the branch house of Russell 
& Company. His home in that city was on Dela- 
ware Street, opposite the residence of Benjamin 
Harrison, afterward President of the United 
States, with whom Mr. Russell enjoyed a personal 
acquaintance. Adjoining his residence was the 
liome of Attorney-General Miller, one of the most 
prominent statesmen of the century. 

Having charge of the business of the firm in 
Illinois and Indiana, Mr. Russell traveled exten- 
sively through these States until 1878, when the 
branch house in Indianapolis was incorporated by 
a stock company', and he became a Director and 
stockholder. He then went on the road, adjusting 
claims and looking after the interests of the firm 
as well as branch houses in other places. During 
that time, he traveled extensively over the United 
States, especiallj^ in the West, and became well 
known as the representative of the company. 

In 1889, Mr. Russell removed to Chicago, where 
he owns and resides in an elegant residence at 
No. 1837 Michigan Avenue. He was first married 
in Sutton, Yt., in 18.54, to Miss Lorinda Chase, who 
was born in Campton, N. II., the daughter of 
Silas Chase, a blacksmith of that place. After her 
death, Mr. Russell was a second time married in 
Sutton, Yt., his wife being Miss Olive C. Cook, 
and the ceremony which united them was per- 
formed in 1858. Mrs. Russell was born in Camp- 



ton, N. H., where her father, Jacob Cook, was a 
millwright. Two children have blessed the union: 
Harley A., who resides in Indianapolis and has 
charge of the branch house of Russell & Company; 
and Carrie, who married S. M. Burdette, Assistant 
Editor of the Chicago Herakl. In her religious 
preference, Mrs. Russell is a Presbi^terian, and 
holds membership in a church of that denomin.a- 
tion in Chicago. 

Inventive by nature, Mr. Russell has secured 
letters patent on several contrivances of value to 
manufacturers, the most Important of which is the 
automatic straw-stacker. Possessing an inquiring 
mind, he is ever on the alert lo discover new 
methods of woi'k, or improve upon the established 
order of things. The great success which has re- 
warded his efforts proves the possession of excel- 
lent judgment and unusual business talent, for, 
when he started out for himself, he had no 
monied capital, but was dependent upon his un- 
aided exertions. His fortune has been acquired 
by his own industry, integrity and energ}', and he 
is trying to bear his part of that responsibilit}' 
which falls in great or small degree to every 
American citizen. His political opinions and 
thorough belief in Protection bring him into 
hearty s^'mpathy with the Republican party, of 
which he is a stanch supporter. His public spirit 
has been shown on more than one occasion, and 
in more than one direction, and he has the highest 
respect of the business men of Chicago and other 
cities. 






R. JESSE P. PENBERTHY. This suc- 
) cessful physician, whose name appears at 
the head of this sketch, impresses even 
those who meet him in only a casual way 
as a man who has drifted easily and naturally into 
the medical profession, who realizes he has made 
no mistake in the choice of his vocation, and who 
feels thoroughly at home in the position which he 
occupies. This firm impression deepens with a 



# 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



361 



more intimate acquaintance, and familiarity with 
the history of his life leads to the unbiased and 
impartial view, that the splendid success which 
he lias achieved is the logical sequence of talent 
rightly used, together with energy and industry 
never misapplied. 

The Doctor was born in West Brook field on the 
11th of August, 1868, and is a lineal deseeudaut 
of British ancestors, his fatlier, John P. Penber- 
thy, having been born in Cornwall, England. 
AVhen about fifteen years of age, the elder Mr. Pen- 
bertliy came to America with his mother, and lo- 
cated in Martin's Eerry, Pa., where he grew to ma- 
ture j'ears, and received his education. He was 
also married there, but subsequently moved to 
West Brookfield, Ohio, where he was engaged in 
mining. In 1869, he located in Massillon, Ohio. 
Previous to this, however, in 1862, he enlisted in 
the One Hundred and P^ourth Ohio Infantrj^, and 
served as a private until the cessation of hostilities. 
In 1875, Mr. Penberthy went to Virginia Citj', 
Nev.,and was engaged in the lead and silver mines, 
and was accidentally killed by the breaking of a 
car cable. He was Iniried there. He was an 
influential man and a miner who thoroughly un- 
derstood his business. In his religious prefer- 
ment, he was a Methodist. His wife, formerly 
Mary Evans, was born in Wales, and the daughter 
of Isaac Evans, who brought the family to Amer- 
ica at an early date. He was a coal miner, and 
located in ^Martin's Ferrj', where he was engaged 
in opening mines. From there, he moved to 
Salemville, Ohio, and there passed the remainder 
of his days. Mrs. Penberthy now resides at No. 
242 East Main Street, Massillon, and is now Mrs. 
John Clay. 

Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Pen- 
berthy, three daughters and two sons, all of whom 
are living. Dr. Jesse P. Penberthy, the third in 
order of birth of these children, passed his boy- 
hood and youth in Massillon, and graduated from 
the High .School in 1885. After this, he entered 
Hudson's Academy, and completed the course in 
one year. From an early ago, he had manifested 
a strong desire for the study of medicine, and in 
1887 he entered the Western Reserve Medical Col- 
lege, where he remained until graduating with the 



degree of M. D. in 1890. On the 1st of April of 
the same year, he located in Massillon, and imme- 
diately began practicing his profession at the cor- 
ner of Main and Mill Streets. He has already 
built up a very lucrative practice, and is meeting 
with much success in his chosen calling. In poli- 
tics, he adheres strictly- to the principles of the 
Republican party. 



^^ IIARLES F. SNYDER, Superintendent of 
(l( „ the moulding department of the Hess, 
^^: Snyder it Co. 's foundry, is a skilled work- 
man, and is one of the thorough, pushing 
men of Massillon. He was born in this city, 
on the 2d of December, 1850, and is a son of 
Frederick Sn^'der. (See sketch of George M.Sny- 
der for parental historj' elsewhere in this volume.) 
He was reared and educated in this cit3',and when 
ten years of age he began working out in the har- 
vest fields during vacation, continuing this until 
fourteen j-eai-s of age. Afterward he was em- 
ployed in the coal mines, hauling out coal with a 
mule for three years, then was with J. F. Hess & 
Bro., with whom he remained twenty months. He 
was subsequently in a blacksmith shop at Coal 
Mine, Willow Bank Coal Mine, and continued 
there as a helper for six months. After this, he 
took charge of a forge of his own, and was thus 
engaged for three or four years. 

When the rolling mills were built in the spring 
of 1873, he became blacksmith in them, and in 
1874 he started for himself with his three broth- 
ers under the firm title of F. H. Snyder it Bros., 
the individual members being F. H., J. F. and 
C. F. Snyder. They erected their shops on Mill 
Street, and were engaged in general repair work 
for some time, thus getting a good start. In 
1882, they embarked in business with Hess Bros., 
under the firm name of Hess, Snyder & Co., and 
our subject has taken charge of the foundry ever 
since. They have added to every department, 
and have one of the flourishing establisliments of 



3G2 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



the city. He is also Superintendent of the mould- 
ing and pattern department, and is thoroughly fa- 
miliar with every detail of his business. 

Mr. Snyder resides at No. 361 East Main Street, 
and is very pleasanth- located. His fine house 
was erected at a cost of $12,000 in 1886, and no 
neater or more attractive place can be found. The 
lot is 100x250 feet, and everything about the 
place indicates the owner to be a man of enter- 
prise and pusli. He also owns the old home and 
other real estate. He was married at Albion, 
Mich., in 1876, to Miss Louisa Snj^der, a native of 
the Buckeye State, born in Massillon, Stark 
County, and the daughter of Christian Snyder, 
who removed from Massillon to Albion, Mich., 
about 1860. He followed agricultural pursuits in 
that State until his death. One child has been 
born to this union, Floj'd C. Mr. and Mrs. Sny- 
der are regular attendants at tlie Presbyterian 
Church, and are liberal contributors to all worthy 
movements. In politics, he is a true-blue Repub- 
lican. 



-^^^ 



ijl OHN MASE was a pioneer of this county, 
and for many years was very active in 
developing its agricultural resources. He 
was one of the leading farmers and stock- 
growers of Bethlehem Township, and his death, 
March 5, 1889, was a loss to the community of 
which he* had been so long a valued member. 
He was born October 3, 1827, in Lebanon County, 
Pa., and was the son of jNHchael and Christina 
(Spangler) Mase, who were also natives of that 
State. 

The original of this sketcii was a small bov when 
he made the removal to this county in company 
with his parents. The famil}- immediately located 
in Bethlehem Township, where the father redeemed 
a good estate from the wilderness, and where he 
made his home until his decease. John, of this 
sketch, was reared to manhood in this count}-, and 
obtained the best education which could be gained 
in the primitive schools of tiiis localitj-. He has 



experienced man}' of the hardships of opening up 
a new country, and assisted his father in placing 
his property in good shape, erecting thereon sub- 
stantial faim buildings, making neat fences, and 
doing all that is good to make it a model farm. 

February 19, 1850, when ready to establish a 
home of his own, Mr. Mase was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth Knagy. The lady was born No- 
vember 3, 1830, and is the daughter of Abraham 
and Susannah Knagy, early settlers of Tuscarawas 
County, where the birth of Mrs. Mase occurred. 
Her parents were brought by their respective 
families to the above-named county when they 
were _young, and thus ranked among the pioneers 
of this State. Her father, who was twice married, 
had a famil}- of fourteen children, of whom 
the following survive: Margaret, the wife of 
David Eberly, of Noble County, Ind.; George, 
who makes his home in Tuscarawas County, this 
State; John, who resides in Kansas; Jeremiah, 
who is living in Elkhart County, Ind.; Mathias, 
who resides in Missouri; Marj', now Mrs. John 
Garber, is located in DeKalb Count}-, Ind., and 
Benjamin makes his home in Michigan. The pa- 
rents of Mrs. Mase were devoted members of the 
United Brethren Church, and her father departed 
this life while residing in "Whitley County, hid., 
during the war. His wife, who is still living, 
makes her home in Whitley County, and is ninety 
years of age. 

Mrs. Mase was reared in her native county, 
where she remained until reaching her seventeenth 
year, at which time she was thrown upon her own 
resources. She obtained a practical education in 
the early schools near her home, and after her 
marriage assisted her husband greatly in obtaining 
a high place in the agricultural community. As 
before stated, our subject departed this life in 
1889, and his death was keenly felt by all who 
knew lam. He was a man of deeds, not of words, 
and such was his integrity, that his promise was as 
good as a bond. His widow is justly proud of his 
rei)utation, and she too occupies a high place in 
the esteem of her neighbors. 

Mr. Mase was for many years a prominent nicm- 
berof the German Reformed Church, in which body 
he was made Deacon, and later occupied the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



363 



responsible position of Elder. He was a friend to 
the i)00r, and took great delight in the exercise of 
hospitalitj', and few there were who spent any 
time in their vicinage without enjoying the good 
cheer for body and mind tliat abounded under his 
roof. At his death lie left an estate of one hun- 
dred and fift3'-sevcn acres which he liad redeemed 
from the wilderness and placed under good tillage. 
Mrs. IMase is a member of the German Reformed 
Church, in which body she is an active and valued 
worker. 



-^^^ 



|(^_^ ENRY STONER,a re|)resentative and prom- 
inent farmer of Tuscarawas Townsliip, was 
born in Stark County, April 2, 1829, and 
has therefore been identified with its prog- 
ress from an early period in its history. His par- 
ents, Jacob and Margaret (Rodocker) Stoner, were 
worth}' people, Penns^'lvanians by birth, and mem- 
bers of the farming class, whose etforts have re- 
sulted in the development of the vast agricultural 
resources of the community. The father, when a 
young man, cametoStark County, in 1818, and set- 
tled in the woods of Tuscarawas Township, of which 
he was a pioneer. 

The house in which our subject was born, and 
which was erected l\y his father, was a structure 
made of hewed logs, and was about 18x20 feet in 
dimensions. In that little home there were nine 
children born: Henry, Josiah, Jacob, Samuel, 
Levi, Jeremiah, Fianna (wife of Samuel Lonas), Lo- 
vina, and John, the two last named being now de- 
ceased. »The father was a liard-working, persevering 
man and was enabled to accumulate a comfortable 
property as the result of his indefatigable efforts. 
He died June 26, 1888, at the age of eighty-seven 
years, having been born in 1801. Politically' he was 
a Democrat, stanch in his support of party men and 
measures. 

The boyhood d.ays of Henry Stoner were passed 
in a comparatively uneventful manner, and at an 
early age he was obliged to assist in the mainten- 



ance of the family, aiding his father in clearing the 
land of its forest growth and tilling the soil. Dur- 
ing the winter months he attended the school near 
his father's house, where he laid the foundation of 
an excellent education, which was mainly self-ac- 
quired. November 3, 18.53, he was married to Miss 
Charlotte, daugiiter of Jacob and Leah Culler, ear- 
h' settlers of Tuscarawas Township, where she was 
born. They became the parents of nine children, 
five living, of whom the following may be noted: 
Loren resides in Stark County; Ida is the wife of 
Frederick AVeisgarber; Valentine makes his home 
in this county; Ada married Jacob Weisgarber; and 
Sheridan is at home. 

The farm which Mr. Stoner owns, and which he 
acquired through his unaided exertions, comprises 
ninety-seven acres of fine improved land and is 
one of the best estates in the county. His atten- 
tion is mainly devoted to its cultivation, but he 
finds sufflcent time to keep posted regarding ev- 
ents of public moment and is well informed con- 
crning the issues of the day. In political matters, 
he is a Democrat; religiously, he is a faithful mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church and a sincere Chris- 
tian, ever read}' to advance the cause of religion 
as opportunity is presented. 



VI^ILLIAM H. BrCKIUS. The high stand- 
/// ard of excellence which marks the popular- 
fj ity of any business bouse is maintained 
by W. H. Buckius, dealer in furnaces, man- 
tels, grates, spouting, roofing, plumbing and gas- 
fitting apparatus, at Canton. Mr. Buckius, who is 
the subject of this sketch, was born in Canton, Ohio, 
November 7, 1844. His father, IIenr\' Buckius, was 
born in New Market, Va., and was only one year 
old when he was brought by his parents to Canton. 
Grandfather John Buckius was one of the pio- 
neers of Stark Count}' and was also the pioneer tin- 
ware merchant in Canton, where he was engaged in 
business until his death. His son Henry succeeded 



364 



POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



him in the business, married a young lady of Stark 
County, and carried on extensive business opera- 
tions for many years. During the early years of 
the settlement of Ohio, he and liis father were ac- 
customed to ride Iiorseback to Pbihidelphia, whence 
tliey shipped material to Canton in a large freight 
wagon, there being no railroads at that time. Thej' 
paid strict attention to business and were the prin- 
cipal merchants in the county. Industrious and 
enterprising, success rewarded their efforts and 
tliey became well-to-do. The business was continued 
by our subject on the death of his father, so that it 
has been in existence for seventy years. 

The parental family consisted of six sons and 
one daughter, one of the sons being now deceased. 
During the late war, four sons were active partici- 
pants, W. n., George, Augustus and Albert, the last- 
named of whom is now a business man of Chicago. 

The subject of our sketch acquired his education 
in the Union School of Canton, and after complet- 
ing his studies, learned his trade with his father. 
At the time of the breaking out of the Civil 
War, he was only sixteen years of age, but his pat- 
riotism was fired and he determined to enlist in 
his country's service. He became a member of 
Company I, Sixty fourth Ohio Infantry, and was 
one of the youngest soldiers in Gen. Sherman 's 
Brigade. He participated in all the principal en- 
g.-igements of tiie Army of the Cumberland, and 
served until the close of hostilities. 

Returning to Canton when the war was ended, Mr. 
Buclvi us resumed the pursuits of [)eace and with his 
brother Augustus started in business. It was not 
long before the firm built up a large trade and from 
tiie beginning they were successful. The connection 
continued seven years, since which time our sub- 
ject has been alone in business. Like his father, 
he has avoided political affairs and devotes his at- 
tention exclusively to the details of his business. 
In May, 1892, he established a factory to man- 
ufacture tin-ware for the wholesale trade. 

In 1866, Mr. Buckius was married to Miss Emma, 
daughter of Solomon Kauffmau, an early settler of 
Stark County. They have one son, Francis How- 
ard, who is associated in business with his fatlier. 
He is also an electrician, and manager ni the el- 
ectrical supply department in the fiim of F, IT. 



Buckius & Co. Our subject is identified, sociallj', 
with the Royal Arcanum and Knights of Pythias, 
and, as might be expected, is an active and prom- 
inent member of tiie Grand Army of tlie Repul)lic. 
In politics, he is a Republican. 



ETER EVERHART was formerly one of tlie 
able "agriculturists of Perry Township, 
and his wise forethought, active enter- 

, \ prise and practical skill in conducting the 
business of farming and stock-raising made him a 
valuable agent in developing the rich agricultural 
resources of this part of Ohio. Mr. Everhart was 
born in Ithaca, N. Y., October 9, 1809, and was the 
son of .lacob and Ann Everhart, natives of Penn- 
sylvania. 

The original of this sketch was reared to man- 
hood in his native State, and for many 3'ears fol- 
lowed the occupation of a mechanic. He was em- 
ployed in comjiany with his brothers in Massillon, 
in the manufacture of fanning mills, the firm 
operating under the name of Everhart Brothers. 
They were very successful in this undertaking, 
and being active business men, invested their 
money judiciously, and exhibited an influence 
wliicli was felt for good in their community. 

The lady to whom Mr. Everhart was united in 
marriage, Jvovember 6, 1844, was Miss Elizabetli 
Clark, who was born in Monroe County, N. Y., 
May 29, 1827. She was tlie daughter of Chester 
and Minerva (Rundle) Clark, natives also of that 
State and county. The first year of his married 
life our subject spent in Lynn, and the following 
year emigrated to Stark County, this State. The 
3'oung couple at once located upon the farm where 
Mrs. Everhart is at present residing, and where so 
many years of their happy wedded life were spent. 
Our subject was well equipped to make his own 
way in the world, as he was active, independent, 
frugal and prudent and possessed withal an enter- 
lirising spirit seconded b}^ good habits, and a capa- 
city to do well whatever lie iindertooki He played 



PORTRAIT AND ItlOGRAPIIKAL RECORD. 



365 



an important part in the upbuilding of Perry 
Townsliip, and assiduously tilled the soil for many 
years. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Everhart were born three sons: 
Harvey C, a highly educated young nian, who 
was graduated from the Massillon High School, and 
the Pittsburgh (Pa.) Coniniercial College; George 
K., who is an architect of high standing in Brook- 
lyn, N. Y.; and one deceased. Our subject oc- 
cu[)ied a prominent place in local affairs, and 
served as Trustee of Perry Township for many 
years. He was public-spirited and alwa3S heartily 
in favor of whatever scheme was advanced to 
promote the interests of his adopted count)-. He 
was a Republican in politics, casting his vote at all 
times in favor of candidates of that part}-. He 
was a devoted member of the Ejiiscopal Church, 
and esteemed for his honorable and upright life by 
all who knew him. Mrs. Everhart, who is also a 
member of the Episcopal Church, is a most estima- 
ble lady, and has shown herself entirely worthy of 
the high estimation in which she is held hy her 
many friends and acquaintances. 

At our subject's death, which occurred October 
12, 1884, he left an estate of one hundred and 
twenty acres of valuable land, upon which will be 
found all the modern improvements which stamp 
its owner as progressive and well-to-do. Mrs. 
Everhart, since the death of her husband, has con- 
ducted the business that he left with remarkable 
success, displaying a general talent for managing 
affairs. 



eHART.ES DIEBOLD, Superintendent of the 
Diebold Safe and Lock Works of Canton, 
is one of the enterprising citizens of Stark 
County, and is at the head of one of its leading 
industries. A native of Germany, he was born 
in the town of Rosenburg, on the 20th of October, 
1824, and is a son of Bernhardt and Mary (Cave) 
Diebold. His jiarents were also natives of Ger- 
many, and resided upon a farm in that country 
throughout their lives, They were highly re- 



spected ■ people of the community where they 
made their home. 

Our subject is the eldest of four children. He 
was educated in the common schools of the Father- 
land, and when it became time to take up some 
line of business, he learned the trade of a lock- 
smith, serving three years as an apprentice, in 
which time he completely mastered the business, 
becoming an expert workman. AVishing to try his 
fortune in America, he sailed for Ne.w Orleans in 
1847, and after spending a few months in the 
Crescent City, made his way up the Mississippi 
and Ohio Rivers to Cincinnati, where he followed 
his trade for a time. He there became connected 
with the manufacture of safes, being associated 
with the firm of C. Bauman & Co. for ten years. 
He then commenced business in that line on his own 
account as a member of the firm of Diebold,Bauman 
& Co. They manufactured all kinds of safes, and 
continued business m Cincinnati for some years, 
but in 1872 the works were removed and perma- 
nently established in Canton The Diebold 
Safe and Lock Company has since been or- 
ganized, and our subject has become one of its 
heaviest stockholders. He has been Superinten- 
dent of the works for many j^ears, and his famil- 
iarity with the business in all its details makes him 
well adapted to the work. The compau}' does an 
extensive business, and furnishes eini)loyment to 
between three and four hundred men. They build 
all sizes of vault safes, from the smallest to the 
largest, and sell all over the country, from the 
Lakes to the Gulf and from the Atlantic to the 
Pacific. 

Mr. Diebold has been four times married; bj' the 
first wife he had one daughter, Louisa, now the wife 
of John Groom, of Covington, K3'. By his second 
wife two sons, William and Charles. No children 
were born of the third union. In 1888, he wedded 
Mrs. Carrie Clark, of the Empire State. She is a 
native of Canada, but was reared in New York. 
Her father, Thomas Outwaters, was a native of 
Ii^ngland, and his wife was a native of Wales. 
Mr. and Mrs. Diebold reside at No. 101 South 
Walnut Street. The}' are prominent citizens of 
the community and are widely known. Our sub- 
ject is a self-made man, who deserves great credit 



866 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



for his success in life, which is due entirely 
to his own efforts. He came to this country 
cmpty-h.indefl, lioping to better his fin.ancial con- 
dition, and his hopes liave been more tlian ical- 
izcd. His perseverance, good management and close 
attention to business have won iiim signal success, 
and Canton finds in him one of its worlliy and 
valued citizens. 



^>-^^<m 



\ ^^ETER D. GRABER. .Stark County is greatly 
I Jl) indebted for its present wealth and liigh 
' f^' standing to the sturdy, intelligent and enter- 
l [ prising tillers of tiie soil who have been in- 
strumental in developing its v.ast agricultural re- 
sources. As a worthy member of its farming com- 
munity, who has contributed toward its material 
advancement, it gives us pleasure to represent Mr. 
Graber in this volume. He has long been associated 
with the agricultural interests of Perr}- Township, 
and has built up a comfortable home. 

He is a native of France and was born October 5, 
1820, a son of Daniel and Mary Graber, also na- 
tives of that country, where they were well-to-do 
and respected citizens. Our subject, who has been 
a lifelong farmer, emigrated to this countrj' in 
1851, taking passage in a sailing-vessel at Havre, and 
after a tedious voyage of forty-three days landed 
in New York City. Thence he came directl}- to 
this county' and made location on the place in 
Perry Township where he is at present residing. 

His land was then in a primitive condition, butbj' 
I)ersistent industry and good judgment he has placed 
his estate of two hundred and tiiirty-five acres 
under the best of cultivation. He has become well 
known as a successful farmer, and pursues the most 
approved methods in tlie management of his place, 
keeping it above par in its improved and orderly 
appearance, and making of it an attractive as well 
as a remunerative piece of property. 

Miss Catlierine Rich, who was born in France, No- 
vember 8, 18;$7, was married to our subject. IMrs. 
Graber is the daugliter of Peter and Anna Rich and 



was a young lady of eighteen years when she ac- 
companied her parents on their emigration to the 
New World. Mr. and Mrs. Rich came directly to 
this county and made location in Perry Townsliip, 
where their decease occurred. To iMr. and Mrs. ( ! ra- 
ber Iiave been born eleven children, seven of whom 
are living namel3': ^lar^-, now Mrs, Elmer Haer; 
Daniel; Lydia, Mrs. David Greber; Leah, Anna, 
John, and Noah. 

Mr. (iraber votes the indei)endent ticket in pol- 
itics, casting ins ballot for the man whom he con- 
siders will best fill tlie office. In 1887, he erected 
a fine residence on his property, which was designed 
with a view to the comfort of the occupants. 
His place is one of the most beautiful in the 
township and shows its owner to be a man of 
progress and enterprise. With each passing year 
he has added to his list of friends, and is to-day 
very much res|)ected throughout the community 
in which he resides. 






ARTIN SENfiER. The highly improved 
and i)rosperous condition of Stark County 
li is in a large degree due to its farming 
population, which is for the most part 
composed of men who are strong in character, en- 
ergetic in disposition, discriminate and sensible in 
judgment, and prompt to take advantage of what- 
soever will prove to their benefit. It is of one of 
this class of whom we write. His homestead, com- 
prising one hundred and seventy-nine acres in 
Tuscarawas Township, is one of the best in this 
region with its farm Ituildings of neat design, its 
rich harvest fields and its p.astures devoted to the 
support of sleek and well-kept cattle, horses and 
swine. 

Mr. .Senger comes of Pennsylvania stock, and is 
himself a native of that Commonwealth, born in 
Lancaster County, October 18, 1838. His par- 
ents, Cyrus and Lydia (Gehman) Senger, were also 
born in that State and were both of German 
extraction. Our subject is the eldest of the family 
of eight ciiildien. and was reared to the life of a 







"n . 



.tT- 



.■w 







HF. CiDciiiCrl OF JACOB KAG PY^ SEC . So., 1^ 1 i.UC M, 1 I LM Tr^^^TArtK CO ,0 




RESIDENCE OF PETER D. GRABEtf, 5tC. ^3, PEHRT TK^ STARK C0,,0 . 




RESIDENCE OF MARTIN 5ENGER , SEC. 5. ,TU SCAR AWAS TP.,5TARK CO.,0. 



POKTHAir ANH UKKiKAI'IlKAL UECOIU). 



fninicr in liiw native coimly. He cfiily inanifcfhUfd 
III! npliliidc! for af<i'ic,iiltiinil piii'KiiilH mid coin- 
iiiciic(f<l wlic'ii ten years of n<^(; to work out on 
farmH diirin^^ the Kiiniiiier inontliK, attending tlic 
loeal schools in winter seasons. 

Mr. Senf^er r)f tills sketch came to Oiiio In th<! 
ii\inng of IMfiT, and made liis lioine in NVayne 
County until 18K0, when he took up liis ahode in 
this section, where lie has since resided, ile briii{(s 
to his work as an agriculturist a good e(|uipiiient 
of hraiti, skill in uiunageincnt and an exttMided ex- 
perience. He is a man of sterling merit, const:ieM- 
lioiis and straightforward in his dealings, and his 
credit is high, for he is prompt in his payments 
and always does .'is he agrees to do in all his 
transactions. 

.Mi.ss Klizaheth itrenneman Ijecame the wife of 
our suhject l>eceinher 31, 1 86 1; she is the daugh- 
ter of Christian lirenneman, and by her union 
with Mr. Senger has become the mother of five 
children, namely: Harvey (deceased), Kannie, 
Kudy, David L. and Henry M. As before stated, 
the property of our subject comprisesone hundred 
and seventy-nine aciei^ of land, which he worked 
hard in changing into a well cultivated, nicely 
improved farm. He occupies an honorable jilace 
in the estimation of his fellow-townsmen, ;ind for 
three years served as .School liirector. In politics, 
he is a sturdy Kepublican, and worshijiS with the 
Mennonite Church, of which he is a devoted mem- 
ber. Mrs. Senger is a very intelligent, efficient 
woman and an excellent houw;-wifc, and looks 
well to the wayf of her family. The couple are 
kind and charitable in their dispositions, and 
are held in universal est<;(;iii throughout the neigh- 
borhood. 



.f^j(^^4- 



^'T^ 



w 



^'ACOB KAC;KY. a lifetime spent in pur- 
suing one calling will usually i-«'sult in sub- 
stantial success, especially if energy and 
peiseveranci; are applied, and such is found 
to be the case with Mr. Kagey, who from boyhood 
has given the <K'Ciipation of agriciilluie tlie |>rin- 
cipal part of his time and attention, lb- waslKirn 

JO 



on Ohio soil, Columbiana County, October 115, 
1842, a son of Abraliani and Hannah (Snyder) 
Kagey, the father born in Shenandoah County, \'a., 
on the IJth of .laniiary, 1818. The Kagr;y family 
came to this country in four sepai-ate emigrations, 
and our subject's ancest<jrs were of the third. His 
great-grandfather came frrjin Switzerland and set- 
tled in the Old Hominion. where our subject's 
father, Abraham Kag(;y, and giaiidfatli<!r, .lohn 
Kagey, were brjin. The grandfather died in IH2.0, 
in Trumbull County, Ohio, wliith(fr he had moved 
between 1818 and 1825. A guardian, Henry 
Kagey, was appoinU^d for the four children, of 
whom Abraham Kagey was the only son. 'I'lie 
guardian having no sons, he took Abraham to live 
with him in Columbiana County, while the daugh- 
ters were left in Trumbull County, where sonu; of 
their descendants are now living. 

Abraham Kagey was early taught the duties of 
farm life, and for some time worked as a hired 
hand, and hiserlucational advantages were limited. 
On the 2.0th of December, 1811, he was married in 
the liou.se where our subject now lives, and where 
the irfotlier was born on the 2'M of Novemfier, 
1823. After marriage, Mr, and Mrs. Kagey re- 
sided in Columbiana County about three yeai's, 
farmed on rented lanri, and then, with the help of 
his father-in-law, bought eighty acres in Osnabiirg 
Township, where he n^sided until 1854. He then 
sold out and purchased the home where our subject 
now lives of his father-in-law, the Itev. Jacob Sny- 
der. Of the Hvechildren born to this union, three 
grew to mature years, and one other than our subject 
is now living. These chilrlren w<!re named in the 
order of their birth a« follows: Jacob, our subject; 
John, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Novem- 
ber 16, 1813, was killed on the railroad at Wooster, 
October 30, 1882, and left a wife and four 
daughters, now rcsifling in Alliance, Ohio; l)aniel, 
born in this county, February 14, 1818, nowa resi- 
dent of Niniishillen 'I'ownship, this county; Laur.'i 
died at the age of three years, six months and 
cighleen days, while the youngest child died in 
infancy. 

Jac<»b Kagey was twelve years of age when his 
father bought the present farm, but foreerUiin rea- 
sons he received a verv liinit(rd education, attend- 



370 



rORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ing school onl}' from the age of nine to twelve. 
He did not know his letters until nine years of 
age, and during the short time he was in the school- 
room he got a little start in reading, writing and 
arithmetic. Being a great reader and a man of 
observation, he has corrected this earl}' deficiency 
to a great extent, and is considered well posted' 
on all subjects. Until the age of twenty-two, he 
gave his time to his father, except four months 
when he had woi'ked out, and on the 13th of 
March, 1864, with the sum of $44 to start with, 
he married Miss Sarah Berlin, a native of Nimi- 
shillen Township, this county, born November 13, 
1839, and a close neighbor to Mr. Kagey. Her 
patents wire Isaac and Margaret (Trump) Berlin. 
After marriage, our subject worked as a daj- 
laborcr for four years, and then rented his father's 
farm. For four years, he ran a threshing-machine, 
and as he was obliged to keep his own books, this 
proved of use to him, for he became more accurate 
in figures, and had no trouble with anyone when 
he came to settle up. At the end of the four 
years, or in 1873, he bought his father's farm of 
one hundred and eighteen acres, and quit thresh- 
ing. His father died at Massillon on the 1st of 
June, 1873, and our subject has since lived on his 
present farm. The raotlier is also deceased. 

Our subject has had four sons as follows: Isaac, 
born on the 8th of October, 1864, died April 
14, 1866; William, born on the 13th of August, 
1866, now clerking in a grocery at South Bend, 
Ind., married Miss Jennie Schilling, March 6, 
1890. He has a good business education, and is a 
wide-awake, enterprising young man. His only 
child, Howard Harrison, was born at South Bend, 
Ind., March 21, 1892. The third son is John Ben- 
ton, who was born July 14, 1871, received a good 
education in the district schools, and when but 
seventeen years of age began teaching, and seems 
naturally fitted for that profession. He has a two- 
years certificate, and is a well-educated young 
gentleman. He is now teaching the home school. 
The youngest of Mr. Kagey's four sons is Ira Ells- 
worth, born November 13, 1874, now obtaining a 
good education, and is a very studious young 
man. 

The father of our subject in earlv life was a 



Democrat, but became a Republican later in life. 
He was a Deacon in the German Baptist Church at 
the time of his death. Our subject also advocates 
the principles of the Repul)lican party, and voted 
the day he was twenty-one 3ears of age for John 
Brougli. His first Presidential vote was for A. 
Lincoln. Mr. Kagey has been Treasurer for the 
Home Insurance Company for Nimishillen and 
Osnaburg Townships for six successive jears. He 
is at present serving his second year as Director of 
the Agricultural Society. In 1890, he was nomi- 
nated by the Republican party as Land Appraiser, 
but as the Township is strongly Democratic, he 
was defeated as he expected to be. Mrs. Kagey is a 
member of the Reformed Church in Louisville. 



"ifi OHN NOFSINGER has met with more than 
ordinary success in prosecuting his calling 
of a farmer, and since casting his lot with 
^^fJ the pioneeis of tliis count}' many years ago, 
has accumulated a valuable property and is classed 
among the well-to-do agriculturists of this section 
of Ohio. He ownsone hundred and eighty-two acres 
of land in his county, his farming intei'ests being 
centered in Bethlehem Township, where he is en- 
joying the fruits of his early labors and the com- 
forts of a substantial home. Our subject, who is 
a native of the Keystone State, was born in Som- 
erset County, January 6, 1815, to John and Eliza- 
beth Nofsinger, who weie also natives of tliat State. 
In the spring of 1815, when only three mouths 
old, he was brought to this count}' by his parents, 
who emigrated hither and located on a farm in the 
woods of Bethlehem Township, which the father 
industriously set to work to redeem from its prim- 
itive wildness. 

Our subject was the eldest in the parental family 
of six children, three of whom are living, namely, 
John, Samuel and Jacob. He had very few ad- 
vantages in his youth, as is too often the case with 
people in poor financial circumstances, and he re- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



371 



ceived only a common-school education, but such 
IS the excellence of schools in America that rich 
and poor alike may master tiie essential amount of 
learning for a business career at a small cost. He 
was married, in 18.37, to Miss Rebecca Hensel, and 
to them was born a family of five children, only 
one of whom is living, John. 

Mr. Nofsinger uwns a good farm, and in the 
prosecution of his calling has achieved a success 
that places him among the leading agriculturists 
of his township. He belongs to the Democratic 
jiarly, and during his earlier years was a wide- 
awake business man, embracing every opportunity 
for advancing his own interests or those of the 
con)munit3' in which he makes his home. 

The devoted wife and counselor of our subject 
dejiarted this life in 1881, a conscientious member 
of the Reformed Church. .She was a most esti- 
mable lady and had endeared herself to the 
liearts of the people, not only in this township but 
throughout the county. Mr. Nofsinger has so well 
and systematical I}' performed the duties of life 
that he has amassed a competency which enables 
hini to pass his declining years in peace and quiet. 
He is numbered among the most successful pio- 
neers of Stark County and has many friends who 
recognize the ability of his character and realize 
tliat he deserves to be held in the highest possible 
esteem. 






^f^ J. SPRANKEL. Among the sons of 
[l^ Stark County, Ohio, who have made their 
/i — ^ work felt in the u[)biiilding of the town- 
ship on agricultural and commercial lines, may be 
mentioned Mr. Sprankel, who was the third child 
and second son in a family of four sons and five 
daughters born to his parents, only four members 
of which family are now living. No State in the 
forty-four gives greater encouragement to a man 
who desires to devote himself to agricultural life 
than does Ohio, for its resources are almost inex- 
haustible and its climate is adapted to the culti- 



vation of varied crops. Mr. Sprankel is one wlio 
has met with success in the line of agriculture, and 
now follows general farming and stock-raising on 
his fine farm of one hundred and fifty-one acres in 
.Jackson Township. 

Our subject was born in the township in which 
he now resides January 7, 1844, at which place his 
father, Henry Sprankel, was also born, in 1817. His 
life was spent as a tiller of the soil on section 
19, Jackson Townshii), and there he was married and 
leared his family. His wife. Miss .Susanna Howen- 
stein, was born in Pennsylvania in 1821, and at the 
age of thirteen she was brought to Stark County by 
her father, David Ilowenstein, a native of Pennsyl- 
vania, who, after some years' residence in Wayne 
Count3', spent his l.ast days in Lawrence Township, 
Stark County. The paternal grandfather, Michael 
Sprankel, first saw the light of day in York, Pa., 
and after reaching manhood removed to Stark 
County, Ohio, in 1815, and until his death, at the 
age of eighty-two years, he resided on a farm in 
Jackson Township. 

E. J. Sprankel's early days were spent in attend- 
ing the district schools near his home and in dis- 
charging the monotonous, yet healthful, duties that 
usuallj' fall to the lot of the farmer's boy. After 
attaining a suitable age, he entered Inland College, 
Greensburgh, Ohio, and after leaving that institu- 
tion taught school for one term. He then returned 
home to lend his father aid on the farm and was 
his able assistant until he was twenty-two years of 
age. October 30, 1867, his marriage with Miss 
Catherine A. Killinger was celebrated, and shortly 
after this event he located on the farm on which 
he now resides, which at that time was but little 
improved. His present handsome and commodious 
residence was built in 1889 at a cost of 13,000, and 
his barn, which is 88x40 feet in dimensions, was 
put up in 1891 and cost $1,800. 

Mr. Si)rankel devotes much of his attention to 
the raising of stock, in which he has shown excel- 
lent judgment, and his sound sense and discrimin- 
ation have Ijeeu put to the test in the capacity of 
administrator of numerous estates. He is a Repub- 
lican in politics, a patron of education, and for 
many j-ears lias been a School Director. His mar- 
riage resulted in the birth of two children, one of 



372 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



whom died in infancy and the other at the age 
of ten years, His wife is a dauj^hter of Jacob and 
Rebecca (Branclier) Killinger, the former a native 
of Pennsylvania and the latter of Stark County. 
Mr. and Mrs. Sprankel are members of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church, and they are looked up to and 
lionored by their numerous acquaintances. Mr. 
Sprankcl's success in life is entirely due to his own 
push, pluck and pel-severance, and from a small 
beginning he has risen to a position of prominence 
in the community where he is so well known and 
thoroughly respected. 



"SfAMES JOHNSON HOOVER. It is an un- 
deniable truth that the life of any man is 
of great benefit to the community in which 
he resides when all his efforts are directed 
toward advancing its interests and when he lives ac- 
cording to the highest principles of what he con- 
ceives to be right. Such a man is Mr. Hoover, the 
editor of the Massillon American, a paper published 
in the interests of the section in which he resides, 
irrespective of party. He was born in Blair County, 
Pa., November 5, 1849, but his father, Samuel 
Hoover, was born in Cumberland County, Pa., and 
by trade was a hatter. He became a resident of 
AVilliamsburgh, Pa., in which place he not only 
followed his trade but discharged the duties of 
Postmaster and also taught school. In 1857, he re- 
moved to Hollidaj'sburgh, having been elected to 
the position of County Treasurer for one term, 
and afterward discharged the duties of Deputy for 
several terms. Tiie last year of the Civil War, he 
served his country in the Two Hundred and 
Thirteenth Pennsylvania Infantry until the 
cessation of hostilities, after which he became the 
editor of the Hollidaysburgh Herjixier. This he 
disposed of after editing it for a number of 3ears, 
and in December, 1870, he came to Massillon, 
and in connection witii his son. James Johnson 
Hoover, became the proprietor of the Massillon 



American. In 1888, he retired from journalistic 
work, and the paper has since been conducted in a 
most praiseworthy manner by its present editor. 

Samuel Hoover was married in 1845 to Miss 
Elizabeth Phillips, a native of the Keystone State, 
who was called from life while a resident of 
Trumbull County. She became the mother of six 
children, all of whom were reared to maturity in 
Pennsylvania. 

James Johnson Hoover's early life did not differ 
materiall3' from that of the average bo3', for he 
obtained sutticient exercise to strengthen and de- 
velop his physical being, while his mental (pialities 
were enhanced by attendance at the common 
schools. The Massillon American, a nine-column 
folio, is a spicy, breezy sheet, and from its columns 
may be gleaned items of interest and value to 
all, no matter what the business may be in which 
they arc engaged. The editorial department is 
ably conducted. The printing is done by steam, 
and the establishment is well equipped to turn out 
all kinds of job work on short notice and in a 
creditable manner. 

In 1875, Mr. Hoover was married to Miss 
Jeannette Kicks, a native of Maryland, who died 
in 1883. She left, beside her husband, two chil- 
dren to mourn her loss: Lyndon and Charles 
Maxwell. Mr. Hoover's second union took place 
in November, 1887, Miss Charlotte Smitli, daugli- 
ter of the late N. J. Smith, a prominent farmer of 
Perry Township, becoming his wife. The}' have 
two children: Harold S., and Helen. He and his 
wife are respected members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and he is genial and whole- 
souled, and of a generous disposition. 



e-^-i^i 



A^yH'EL SMITH. Pennsvlvania has con- 
^^^ tril)uted to Stark Country, Ohio, many esti- 
mable citizens, but she has contributed 
none more worthy of success, or more prom- 
inently identified with the growth and prosperity- 
of the county, than the subject of this sketch. He 



PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



373 



comes of German descent and inherits from his 
Teutonic ancestors nuicli of liis thrift and energy. 
His grandfatlier, Balcher Smith, was born in Ger- 
many, and the favorable reports received from 
America templed him to malie a settlement on this 
side of the ocean. He was quite a j'oung man 
when he came to this country, and he first made a 
settlement in Cumberland County, Pa., where lie 
was married. There he passed the life of an honest, 
industrious citizen. 

The father of our subject, Joseph Smith, was 
born in the grand old State of Pennsylvania, in 
Cumberland Count}^ and there he grew to man- 
hood. He selected his wife in the person of Miss 
Anna Bayshora, a native of Chambersburgh, Frank- 
lin County, Pa., and their nuptials were celebrated 
in that county. Her father was a native of Ger- 
many. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. 
Smith settled on a farm in Franklin Countj', and 
as the j-ears passed away they improved a good 
farm and gathered around them many of the com- 
forts of life, prominent among them being four 
children, tiiree sons and one daughter. On this 
farm, where they had passed the best j-ears of their 
lives, this worth}' couple passed away, the mother 
dying when about sixty, and tlie father when 
eighty-four years of age. 

All these children reached the years of discre- 
tion and our subject was second in order of birth. 
He was born in Franklin Count}', Pa., on the 2d 
of September, 1827, and was there reared and edu- 
cated, receiving his schooling in the district schools. 
He was a single man when he came to Ohio, in 
18.52, and he began improving one hundred and 
sixty acres of laud which he had purchased in 
Lawrence Township. In 1854, he married Miss 
Mary Ruch, a native of Ohio, born in Canton, Stark 
County. Slie died in the '60s, leaving the following 
children: Levi, Lovina, Caroline, Ellen, Amanda, 
Maiy, John and Charles. All are now living and 
all reside in Lawrence Township, with the excep- 
tion of Amanda and Lovina. 

Immediately following his marriage, our subject 
settled on his farm, on section 1, Lawrence Town- 
ship, and was tliere engaged in general farming for 
ten years. After this, he moved to the Miller 
Farm, which he had bought during the war, re- 



mained on this three years and then moved to 
where he now lives on section 3. He owns three 
good farms in Lawrence Township, all improved 
with houses and barns and consisting of three 
hundred and twenty-lwp acres. The farm on section 
1 has one hundred and sixty acres, and he also 
owns eighty acres on the same section. His sons are 
living on the f.arms and our subject is carrying on 
the home place. He handles a great deal of stock 
and is wide-awake and enterprising. He erected all 
the buildings on his farms, and very commodious 
and comfortable structures they are, ornaments to 
any place. In politics, he affiliates with the Repub- 
lican party. He is one of the county's most 
thorough-going, reliable, straightforward men and 
one of the first-class men of the township. 



•^^1 



!.|M=?- 



AVID KERSTETTER, Sr. This well- 
known pioneer, who is everywhere re- 
spected for his sterling worth, has been a 
resident of this county since the latter 
part of the year 1816, and has done his share 
towards the development and improvement of the 
same. He is now retired from the active duties of 
life, and is enjoying the accumulations of years 
of hard labor. He was born in Centre Count}-, 
Pa., on the 7th of May, 1816, and was about six 
months old when brought to this county by his 
parents. His father, John Kerstetter, was a native 
of Northumberland County, Pa., and the grand- 
father, Leonard Kerstetter, was also a native 
of that grand old State, and of German descent. 
The latter followed the occupation of a miller and 
farmer in his native State. About 1814, he came 
to Stark County, Ohio, and bought two mills, a 
grist and saw mill, both erected in 1812, and also 
purchased thirty-five acres of land. His death oc- 
curred in this county in 1822. Our subject has a 
part of the headstone that marks the resting-place 
of his grandfather. It is marked "L. 1822 K." 
the same being cut in by Hon. George Harsh when 
a boy of twelve years, our subject standing by to 



374 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



see it done. The grandfather was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war, and w.is a Lutheran in his re- 
ligious views. 

John Kerstetter, father of our subject, was 
reared in Pennsylvania, and early in life was 
drilled in the duties of farm life. He married 
Miss Elizabeth Young, a native of Philadelphia, 
Pa., and the daughter of Christian Young, who 
was a native of Germany, where he was married. 
Like many of that nationality, he was a weaver by 
trade, and after coming to America he followed that 
calling in'Penn's Valley until his death. His wife 
was also an expert weaver, and could manufacture 
cloth. Mr. Kerstetter brought his family, consist- 
ing of his wife and three children, to Ohio in 1816, 
and made the journey with team and wagon. He 
located on one hundred and sixty-nine acres ad- 
joining his father's land, erected a rude log cabin, 
and began developing and improving in true pio- 
neer style. The cabin had one room, the door was 
hung with wooden hinges, and two windows, 8x10 
inches, furnished the light. Only three acres of 
land were cleared, and this worthy couple went 
eagerly to work to make a comfortable and pleas- 
ant home. As the 3'eai's passed away, they re- 
placed the log cabin with a good, new house, and 
also erected a commodious barn, but before these 
could be paid for, Mr. Kerstetter was accidentally 
killed by being run over by a wagon while unload- 
ing rails in a field. His death occurred in 1830, 
when thirty-nine j'ears of age. When a resident 
of Pennsylvania, he served in the War of 1812. 
His wife died on the farm in 1852. They were 
the parents of seven children, five sons and two 
daughters, only two of whom now survive. One 
son, Daniel, resides in Texas, Ohio. 

The immediate subject of this sketch was reared 
two and a-half miles from Massillon, on the same 
quarter-section as Hon. George Harsh, and they 
were schoolmates together, attending the same log 
schoolhouse and sitting on the same slab seats. 
This was during the winter season principally, and 
our subject received but about twelve months' 
schooling altogether. However, he made up for this 
to a great extent by diligent study at the old fire- 
place during the long winter evenings. He after- 
ward went to school to Mr. George Harsh. He was 



but fourteen years of age when his father died, 
and was early thrown upon his own resources. He 
immediately went to work to pay off the debt of 
$1,000 his father had left, and soon succeeded in 
doing this, but not without considerable self-sacri- 
fice and much hard labor. Self-made and self-re- 
liant, he has reached his present enviable position 
through a career of usefulness, honor and integ- 
rity. 

When twenty-two years of age, our subject be- 
gan teaching school and continued this for seven 
winters, working on the farm during the summer 
months. He invested in different farms, and after 
improving would sell at a considerable profit, con- 
tinuing this for many years. He was a very suc- 
cessful farmer and thoroughly understood his 
business. He embarked in buying and selling 
sheep, and sold wool for 81 a pound. Later, he 
sold off his stock and bouglit a farm of eighty-six 
acres in Lawrence Township, near the old home, 
and sold this four years later at a big profit. 

In the year 1866, October 2d, he located in Mas- 
sillon, Ohio, outside the corporation, and later he 
bought his present property at No. 316 North Mill 
Street. ■ He has dealt in land some since then, and 
now owns considerable real estate. He was mar- 
ried first on the 2d of October, 1842, in Lawrence, 
Ohio, to Miss Sarah Weygandt, a native of Law- 
rence, and tlie daughter of Henry Weygandt, a 
farmer by occupation. Four children have been 
born to this union, as follows: David, who enlisted 
in the Eighteenth U. S. Regulars in 1861, when sev- 
enteen 3'ears of age, andsei'ved three years. Later, 
he re-enlisted in the same company and served two 
years in the Rocky Mountains — six years in all. 
He held the rank of Sergeant-Major when he was 
mustered out on the 22d of December, 1866. 
Since then he has resided in Massillon, and is a 
brick-layer by trade; Melissa is now Mrs. Ruch, of 
Lawrence, Ohio; John is engaged in business in 
Ionia, Mich., and Benjamin is a painter of New- 
ark, N. J. 

Mr. Kerstetter's second marriage occurred in 
Lawrence Township, this county, on the 2d of 
October, 1859, to Miss Sarah Biller, a native of 
Canton Township, this county, and they have 
four intevestins: children: Marietta, now Mrs. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



375 



Trophagen, i-csides in Massillon,anclViola, Sadie M., 
and Marcellns, who are at home. Our sub- 
ject was Township Trustee, and in 1859 he was 
Real-estate Assessor, also Township Assessor. In 
tiie year 1871, he was Assistant City Assessor and 
he has been .School Director in Lawrence Town- 
ship for fifteen years. He is decplj^ interested in 
educational matters and has assisted in building 
many schoolhouses. He is a strong advocate of 
the princi|)les of the Republican party and liis first 
Presidential vote was cast for Gen. Harrison in 
1836. (le was not old enough, but in some way man- 
aged to vote. He has been a delegate to county and 
.State conventions several times and has held many 
position of trust in the county. The life of Mr. Ker- 
stetter strikingly empliasizes tlie marvelous in- 
dustry, tireless energy, and broad spirit of enter- 
prise that are to-day so characteristic of the Am- 
erican man of affairs. 



i-^ ^^» y 



BRAHAM FASNACHT. An assured po- 
sition among tiie farmers of Starlv Countj- 
is that lield by our subject, who is success- 
fully prosecuting liis calling in Perry 
Township. His estate is suflicienti}' large to afford 
him abundant occupation for mind and body, and 
to fui'nish means with which to secure all the com- 
forts of life and make provision for his declining 
years. On every part of the estate the evidences 
of intelligent management may be seen, and the 
surroundings of the residence indicate the pres- 
ence of refined womanhood and her controlling 
hand in the household economy. 

The birth of Mr. Fasnacht took place in Lancas- 
ter County, Pa., .September 1!>, 1832, his parents 
being John and Rebecca (Swigard) Fasnacht, na- 
tives of I'ennsylvania and of German ancestrj'. 
Aljraham of this sketch was a lad of four years 
when he accompanied his parents on their emigra- 
tion to this county, making the journey overland 
with a l)linil horse and \vag<iti. The family located 



in Berlin, where the father followed his trade of a 
weaver in connection with his farm. 

Of the eleven children comprised in the parental 
family, the following survive: Mary, Mrs. David 
Taxtel; Abraham; Samuel; Hannah, Mrs. Ransom 
Reynolds; George; Nancy, Mrs. .John Lantz; and 
Henr^'. The elder Mr. Fasnacht was a prominent 
member of the Lutheran Church and departed this 
life in 1881. Our subject was reared to man's es- 
tate amid the pioneer scenes of this county and 
received his primary education in a log school- 
house which had a puncheon floor and no win- 
dows. 

Abraham Fasnacht and Miss Sarah Wagner, who 
is a native of this county, were united in marriage 
.Tune 9, 1855. Mrs. Fasnacht, who was bom April 1, 
1836, is the daughter of Christian and .Susan Wag- 
ner, the latter of whom departed this life in 1864. 
Her parents, who were natives of Pennsylvania, 
emigrated to this county in an early day, where 
the3' occupied a high position among the pioneers. 
Mr. and Mrs. Wagner had a family of nine chil- 
dren, six of whom are living: Lucinda, the widow 
of Fred Shepley; Samuel; .Sarah; Harriet, Mrs. 
John Smith; Benjamin and Jacob. The father is 
a consistent member of the Lutheran Church and 
has now attained the advanced age of eighty-eight 
3'ears. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Fasnacht of this sketch have 
been granted a family of seven children, all of 
whom are living with one exception, and who 
bear the respective names of Emma; Hannah, Mrs. 
Benjamin Snyder; Flora, the wife of Charles Stri- 
bar; Alfred, Horace, Clarence; and Nina, deceased. 
In 1864, our subject located on his present farm, 
which comprises one hundred and eighty-four 
acres of valuable land. He is one of the represen- 
tative citizens of this county and has contributed 
materially to its agricultural development and 
prosperity. 

Mr. Fasnacht has always been actively inter- 
ested in school affairs and at the present time is 
serving as Director of the Board. In his political 
relations, he is a stanch Republican, and receives 
his due measure of respect from those by whom he 
is known, and is one who in social and domestic life 
is weuial and considerate. AVitli his wife, he is a 



376 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



member of the Lutheran Church and is classed 
among the most efficient and energetic workers in 
the congregation. 



^p^iUSTAVUS ELBEL. Distinguished among 
(|( ,=p the oldest, most extensive and the most re- 
A^Aj Iial)le manufacturing concerns in the sad- 
dlery- hardware trade, not oul^y in the city of Can- 
ton, but throughout the entire countr}-. is that of 
P^lbel ik Co., who contiol a trade of great magni- 
tude in everything pertaining to the business. 
The works were first established in Pittsburgh, Pa., 
in 1847, but were moved to Canton, Ohio, by El- 
bel, Gilliam & Co. in 1880. They purchased the 
building formerly occupied by the Printing Press 
Manufacturing Co., to whicli other buildings have 
been added, the material being brick. This com- 
pany manufactures saddlery hardware of all kinds 
and descriptions, brass, silver, nickel-plate, tinner's 
and japanner's and malleable iron castings. The 
individual members of the firm are G. Elbel, Ed- 
win Davis and Paul Gschwend. They employ 
from two hundred to two hundred and twenty 
men all the time and are doing a flourishing busi- 
ness. Prompt attention is given to all orders, and 
the house is one with which it is desirable on the 
part of dcaleis and others to form relations, since 
these are sure to be satisfactoiy, permanent and 
profitable. The members of this company are 
widely known throughout the communit}^ as ener- 
getic, honorable business men, and their standing 
and position in both commercial and social circles 
is of the highest and most creditable character. 

Mr. Elbel is a native of Germany, having been 
born June 24, 1835, and passed his boyhood days 
in his native countiy, receiving a common-school 
education. He emigrated to tlie United States in his 
fourteenth year, and after an ocean voyage of 
fort3'-nine days, landed in Baltimore, Md. From 
there he went to Pittsbuigli, Pa., and for some 
time was engaged in the scale business. Later, he 
was a pattern-maker for different parties and dif- 



ferent firms. In 1865, he was employed as a pat- 
tern maker b}- a Pittsburg!) firm, and subsequently 
was taken into the firm as a partner. They manu- 
factured all kinds of malleable iron saddlery, 
hardware, etc., and continued business there until 
1880, when our subject came to Canton and estab- 
lished his present works, in which lie owns a con- 
trolling interest. 

Mr. Elbel, being a practical and skilled mechanic, 
superintends the general business and especially 
the mechanical and finishing department. Having 
placed the business upon a substantial basis, it is 
now one of the growing and important industries 
of Canton. 

Mr. Elbel was unil<'d in marriage, in 1862, to 
Miss Elizabeth Anderegg, of Pittsburgh, Pa., but 
a native of Switzerland, and she now presides in a 
graceful and pleasing manner over his fine resi- 
dence at No. 368 North Cleveland Avenue. Nine 
children have been born to this union, a son and 
three daugliters still living, five being deceased. 



€>-*<-^ 



IIJOHN W. MUSKOPF. The spirit of pro- 
I gress so characteristic of the American citi- 
zens of the nintteenth century finds an 
exemplification in the gentleman above 
named. He is a farmer and stock-raiser, residing 
on section 22, Perry Township, where he owns a 
splendid estate. He worked hard to obtain an ed- 
ucation, and has toiled industriously to gain a com- 
petence and provide for himself a good home. In 
this endeavor he has succeeded, and his comforta- 
ble dwelling abounds in good cheer for body and 
mind, while the various other buildings upon the 
estate are neat and well built. 

He of whom we write is a native of this county 
and was born November 28, 1847, to John and 
Elizabeth Muskopf. The father of our subject is 
a native of Germany and emigrated to this coun- 
try, making location in Stark County in the '30s. 
He is still living here, iiaving attained the age of 
three-score years and ten. He was married three 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



377 



times and of his large family of children the fol- 
lowing survive: Catherine, our subject, Jacob, 
Clara, Laura, Louisa, Samuel, Maggie and Daniel. 
The elder Mr. Muskopf is a member of the Evan- 
gelical Church, in which body he has many warm 
friends. 

John W. Muskoiif of this sketch was orphaned 
by the death of his mother when nine days old, 
and was then taken into the home of his grand- 
father, Daniel Urshel, where he was given fair op- 
portunities for an education and was reared to 
manhood. His grandfather was an early settler in 
Stark County and was a member of the Cierman 
Lutheran Church. 

Tlie original of this sketcli was married August 
20, 1874, to Miss Frances Way, who was Ijorn in 
Pike Township, this county, and is a daughter of 
Frederick Way, who is still living in the above- 
named township. To Mr. and Mrs. Muskopf have 
been born tiiree children: Ira A., Kittle S. and 
Grace. 

Our subject owns eight}- acres of land, which he 
has placed under good cultivation, and is one of 
the most active agriculturists in this part of the 
county. He is a valued member of the Reformed 
Church at llichville. In politics, he is a Democrat 
and a member of the Perry Grange at Massillon. 
A reliable, steadj-going citizen, an industrious 
farmer and good neighbor, he is looked upon with 
respect and his wife also has many friends. 






W oris B. OHLIGER, Superintendent of the 
I ^ City Water Works, and Chief of the Fire 
iJ'—^ VN Department at Canton, was born in the 
cit}' wliere he now resides, April 9, 1855. His 
parents, Louis and Mary Ohliger, were natives of 
Germany, where they were reared and married, and 
where their eldest child, Jacob, now a resident of 
Pittsburgh, Pa., was born. At an early day they 
came to America and settled in Canton, where the 
father embarked in the hotel business and contin- 
ued thus engaged for some ^-ears. He subsequent!}' 



retired to private life, and at a good old age passed 
from earth, in 1888. His wife had died some years 
previous. They were wortiij' people, of whose 
memory their children are justly proud. The 
father became quite prominent in public affairs, 
serving as City Councilman from the Third Ward, 
and also occupying other positions of iionor. 

The parental family consisted of four sons and 
two daughters: Jacob, Clirist, Louis B., one de- 
ceased, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Pxlward Diener, and 
Augusta, wife of John Brown. The subject of 
this sketcli was reared in Canton, and received a 
limited education in the common schools of the 
place. His mother having died when he was about 
six years of age, the children were early forced to 
become self-supporting, and had none of the ad- 
vantages wliicii are enjoyed by those whose cir- 
cumstances are more fortunate. When fourteen 
years old, Louis B. commenced to learn the trade 
of plumbing, steam and gas fitting, and as he was 
quick to learn and prompt to execute, he soon 
became an expert in the business, and commanded 
good wages. 

Subsequently, Mr. Ohliger became foreman for 
George W. Dillon, in his plumbing, steam and gas- 
fitting works, where he remained until 1882. He 
was then appointed Chief of the Fire Department 
under a Republican administration, and has since 
served in that capacity. A few months after be- 
coming Chief, he was appointed Superintendent of 
the Water Works, which position he has ever since 
filled to the entire satisf;iction of all concerned. 
His long term of ofl!ice sulDciently indicates his 
popularity, and it is safe to say that, of all the 
citizens of Canton, there is not one who occupies a 
higher place in the regard of all than does he. In 
the best sense of that often abused word, he is 
"self-made," and although he had few school ad- 
vantages, he has become well informed on all the 
leading subjects of interest, and is a thougiitful 
reader of current literature. From his business 
investments he realizes a good income and pros- 
perity has rewarded his efforts. 

In 1876, Mr. Ohliger was married to Miss Salome 
Oberly, of Greensburgh, Ohio, and tliey are the 
parents of one child. Conn. In his social rela- 
tions, our subject is identified with the Knights of 



378 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Pythias, National Union, and the Knights of tlie 
Golden Rule. Politically, he is a stanch adiierent 
of the principles of the Democratic party, and 
gives ills influence to the promotion of all public 
measures calculated to advance the welfare of tlie 
citv. 



)EN.IAMIN DOLL, a native of this county, 
has done much important pioneer work. 
He h.as passed the sixtietli milestone that 
marks an honorable life, and is still keenly 
interested in farming and stock-raising. His estate 
is amply supplied with commodious buildings for 
every purpose, and he is regarded as one of the 
prominent men in his community, and has many 
warm friends who esteem him highly for his ster- 
ling worth. 

Mr. Doll was born July 27, 1827, in this county, 
and is a son of John and Elizabetli (Risher) Doll, 
natives, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Marj'- 
land. His mother, when nine years of age, in 1809, 
emigrated to Stark County in company with her 
parents, and during her life could relate many an 
interesting tale of pioneer life in the new State. 
In that early day, the family were often compelled 
to flee to the block-houses in order to protect 
themselves from the Indians. 

John Doll, the father of our subject, emigrated 
to this State with his parents in 1814, the family 
locating in Osnaburg Township, this county, mak- 
ing their home in a log cabin in the woods. Of 
his large family of children, the following sur- 
vive: Our subject, Josiah, Frank, Isaac, George and 
Eli. He of wliom we write was reared to man's 
estate in this county, and received a practical edu- 
cation in the common schools. Many an acre of 
raw prairie land has he broken with the old-time 
plow, drawn b}' oxen, and witii the ox-team hauled 
grain to market in those days. In his youth he 
was inured to hard labor, but thereby developed 
self-reliance and force of character, which have 
proved of incalculable benefit to him in later years. 



The lady to whom our subject was united in 
marriage in 1857 was known in lier maidenhood 
as Miss Catlicrine Fisher, and to them was born a 
family of eiglit children: Josiah, Flora, Denison, 
Logan, Melville, Cora, Albert, and Kent. The wife 
and mother departed this life May 14, 1888, and 
the lady whom Mr. Doll chose for his second wife 
was Marj^ A., a daughter of .Tohr. Jeffers, a resi- 
dent of this township. 

In the spring of 1852. the original of this sketch 
went to California, taking passage on a steamer 
from the harbor of New York Cit^', and landed 
after a vo3'age of one month in San Francisco. He 
remained in the Golden State for three years, and 
was engaged in mining with fair success. He has 
since visited California on three different occasions, 
but always returns well satisfied with his home in 
the Buckeye State. 

Mr. Doll is the proprietor of one hundred and 
sixty acres of valuable land which his industiy 
and enterprise have placed under excellent tillage, 
and from which he reaps a comfortable income. In 
politics, he is a stanch Republican, warmly advo- 
cating the principles of that party, and does all in 
his power to advance its interests. He has served 
acceptably as School Director in his district, and is 
a member of the Perry (Jrange at Massillon. Mr. 
Doll is a man of sensible opinions on all subjects 
with which he is conversant, his dealings arc al- 
ways on the square, and his credit in money mat- 
ters, as in all things whatsoever, is sound. 



^^- 



-r^m-r 



"^ 



IMON P. EBY. The life of a farmer, par- 
ticularly if one Lakes possession of an un- 
developed tract of land, calls forth the 
vigor of body and powers of mind in a de- 
gree that would be surprising to one who is unac- 
quainted with rural life. The man who can make 
a success of agriculture must be ready to take ad- 
vantage of the variations in the soil and climate, 
and must therefore be keenly observant regarding 
the results of drainage, rotation of crops and 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



379 



methods of cultivation. It is by reason of indus- 
try and intelligence on the part of its farmers that 
Stark County has reached its present state of de- 
veloijment and productiveness, and those who have 
aided in this work are deserving of grateful re- 
membrance. Among those who in Plain Township 
have been for many years advancing the interests 
of the county is Simon P. Eby, who is engaged in 
farming and stock-raising on section 24. 

The natal day of our subject was October 26, 
1H21, and his birthplace section 24 of the above- 
named township. His father, David Eby, was a na- 
tive of Virginia, and his grandfather, also David 
Eby, was a native of the same State and served as a 
driimnier-boy in the Revolutionary War, having 
run away from home when fourteen j-ears of age, 
and, joining the arm}', served his country faith- 
fully and well for seven years. 

David Eby located in this county in 1806, where 
he entered four hundred and eighty acres of land 
from the Government. The journey hither was 
made on horseback and he was accompanied at that 
time by his parents and their family. The father, 
wlio ranked among the oldest pioneers of this sec- 
tion, died in 1832. David Eby in company with 
a lirother kept "bach" for about a twelvemonth, 
when the brother was married, and David then 
made his home with him. This section was still the 
haunt of deer and wild animals, but it seemed 
to Mr. Eby to present opportunities that made it 
a desirable place in which to locate. He there- 
fore, ere long, built a log cabin, and, going back 
to Pennsylvania, was there married, and returning 
to his new home with his bride, hasever since been 
numbered among the agriculturists of the county. 
Tiie primitive furnishings of their log cabin con- 
sisted of a table, which was made by driving sticks 
into the ground and placing on them clapboards, 
and the bed and one or two chairs were fashioned 
in tlie same manner. Their nearest neighbor was 
two and one-half miles distant, and when ready to 
market the products of tlie farm at Cleveland, Mr. 
Eby was obliged to cut a road through to Greens- 
l)iirgh, and on returning brought leather, salt, etc., 
which he received in exchange for his grain. His 
success in the development of his land was com- 
(ilete. and at his death, which occurred in his sev- 



enty-ninth j-ear, he owned two hundred and forty 
acres of land in this township and three hundred 
and twenty acres in Summit County, this State. 
lie was a self-made man and acquired this vast 
amount of property through his own diligence 
and skill as a practical, wide-awake farmer. He 
was an active member of the Baptist Church, in 
which denomination he served as Deacon for 
many years. 

The mother of our subject, who, prior to her 
marriage, was Miss Catherine Leezer, was born in 
AVashington County, Pa., and became tlie mother 
of six children, of whom Rhoda and Reuben are 
deceased. Those living are Delilah, Simon P. and 
Rachel. The mother of these children was, like 
her husband, a devoted member of the German 
Baptist Church, and died when sixtj'-six years of 
age. Her father, Peter Leezer, was a farmer in 
Pennsylvania, and when advanced in years came 
to this county and made his home with the father 
of our subject, where his decease occurred at the 
advanced age of eighty-four years. His wife, who 
survived him some time, died in the ninety-sixth 
year of her age. They were both members of the 
German Baptist Church. 

He of whom we write was reared amid the scenes 
of a somewhat primitive nature, and enjoj-ed only 
the educational advantages afforded bj' the sub- 
scription schools. He has been an eye-witness of 
the wonderful development of this section, and in 
company with his brother John farmed the old 
homestead until reaching his thirtieth _vear. His 
wedded life with Miss Annie Harshbarger, which 
began April 20, 1852, is a worthy example of a 
true marriage. Mrs. Eby was born in Osnabui-g 
Township, this county, November 9, 1827, and has 
borne her husband six children, only two of whom, 
Pho-be and Matilda, are living. Those deceased 
are Catherine, Malinda, Delilah and David. 

After establishing a home of his own, our subject 
farmed in this townshi]) until 1872, when he re- 
moved to Nimishillen Township and made his home 
on the Georgetown Road for the succeeding thir- 
teen years. At the expiration of that time, he 
took possession of his present farm, which com- 
prises three hundred and two acres of valuable 
land, and is one of the finest estates in the 



380 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPIIJCAL RECORD^ 



count}'. His energy, enterprise and business tact 
have been prominent agents in pushing forward 
the interests of tiiis section and in advancing its 
material jirosperit}'. lie has, liowever, lived a re- 
tired life for the past twenty-eight years, having 
acquired considerable wealth in the prosecution of 
his calling, lie is in every respect a good citizen, 
and is fully trusted by his fellow-men, because he 
has always carried himself as an upright. God- 
fearing man, conducting himself toward others so 
as to secure their good-will and respect. He is en- 
gaged in lending money, and makes his home on 
his beautiful estate, which is improved with numer- 
ous substantial buildings of a high order, and 
stocked with the best grades of cattle and horses. 
The original of this sketch is one of the promi- 
nent and influential members of the German Bap- 
tist Church, with which denomination he has been 
connected for the past twenty-four jears, and is 
occupying the ofHce of Deacon at the present time. 
He has been veiy liberal in his contril)utions to- 
ward its support, and, in company with his brother, 
donated nearh* all the funds necessar}' to erect the 
splendid large edifice in which that denomination 
■worships. He is, in the truest sense of the phrase, 
a self-made man, possesses a keen, resolute nature, 
the ability to execute his plans and persistent in- 
dustrial habits, b}- which he has prospered marvel- 
ousl}'. He is always found ready and willing to 
contribute to all schemes for the advancement of 
the township and county, and enjoys the friend- 
ship of many who appreciate the genuine worth 
of his character. 






^^REN FREEMiS 
ij I cultivating a 
^^? Township wit 



,REN FREEMAN. Among those who are 
portion of the soil of I'erry 
ith good results and securing 
thereby many comforts and enjo^-ments is the 
gentleman above named. His home comprises 
seventy-eight and one-fourth acres of land, and his 
occupation is that of a general farmer, wisely di- 
viding his attention between diversihed crops and 



such a number of domestic animals as can be well 
kept and are easily cared for. His estate is under 
cultivation and indicates in its appearance that it 
is controlled by one who understands his busi- 
ness. 

Our subject was born September 13, 1842, in this 
township, to John and Mary (Scott) Freeman, 
natives of New Jersey and Scotland respectively. 
The father was brought to this county when a boy 
and is now one of the oldest living settlers in 
Perry Township, having attained his eighty-third 
year. He is the father of the following children: 
Elizabeth, Mrs. A. Whipple; Mar}', Mrs. George 
Ingold; Susan the wife of John Bailey; Jeanette 
Ann, Mrs. Gabriel Swihart; Oren; John; Agnes, 
Mrs. Jacob Devies; Adelia, Mrs. John Swinehart; 
and Arietta, the wife of Prof. Lester Nave, of Mas- 
sillon. 

Oren Freeman of this sketch studied during his 
boyhood in a temple of learning which had but 
three windows and was built and furnished in a 
primitive fashion. However, he was able to ac- 
quire a practical knowledge of the principal 
branches of study, and having an active mind and 
a desire for information, he has added to his 
knowledge in various ways from year to 3'ear. 
But little clearing had been done upon the home 
farm when he was old enough to aid in its culti- 
vation, and he now sees around him the fruits of 
his labors and the many comforts of modern life. 
He remembere an early day when oxen were used 
in breaking the land and rude implements of ever_v 
description occupied the home place. 

August 12, 1862, Mr. Freeman was married to 
Miss Mary Allen, a lad}' of fine character, domes- 
tic knowledge and social nature. She is a 
native of this county and the daughter of Austin 
and Ann Allen, early settlers of this township. 
The happy union has been blessed by one daugh- 
ter, Inez, now the wife of John W. Black. 

In his political relations, our subject is a stanch 
Republican, and has ever shown a deep interest in 
the cause of education and other civilizing and 
elevating influences in hiscommunily. He is well- 
informed regarding topics of general interest, ex- 
presses himself readily regarding them and has a 
manly character which leads his neigiibors to re- 



rORTEAlT AND BIOGRArillCAL RECORD. 



il 



spect him. He has been very successful in his 
chosen occupation and occupies a high place 
among his fellow-agricultuiists. A siietcli of his 
father, .John Freeman, Sr., will be found on anotiier 
page in this volume. 



^^ HRISTIAN GERBER. The biographer takes 
ilr^ especial pleasure in recording the principal 
^^r' events in the life of one who, like Mr. 
fierlier, was born in Stark Count}' and here reared 
to manhood when this now flourishing section of 
country was an undeveloped wilderness. Through- 
out his long and honorable career as an agricul- 
turist, Mr. Gerber has been truly interested in 
eve}' movement which will advance the interests 
of his community, and has always been known as 
one of its most enterprising and pushing citizens. 

This prominent citizen of Bethlehem Township 
was born in Stark County, Ohio, January 8, 1820. 
His parents, Jacob and Magdalena Gerber, were 
natives of Penns3ivania, and his maternal grand- 
father was a soldier in the War of 1812. During 
the early days in the history of Ohio, Jacob Ger- 
ber removed hither in 1812, and settled in Canton 
Township, Stark County, of which he was one of 
the first settlers, and where he resided until his 
death in 1827. He aided in the pioneer work of 
developing the vast resources of the count}', and 
improved a farm from the wilderness. 

Amid such surroundings as were common in 
pioneer settlements, Christian Gerber grew to a 
rugged manhood, well fitted to bear his part in the 
labor of cultivating a farm. When about twenty- 
one years of age, he commenced to learn the trade 
of a carpenter, which he afterward followed for 
many years in connection with agricultural pur- 
suits. Prior to learning his trade, he had attended 
the school held in a log building near his home, 
and when not at work on the farm, devoted him- 
self assiduously to his studies. For a short time, 
he was also a student in a German school. 



The first marriage of our subject took place 
September 21, 1851, when Miss Catherine Keehn 
became his wife. This lady was born in Stark 
County, and passed from eaith after a wedded life 
of twenty-two years, leaving one daughter, Han- 
nah, Mrs. (i. Stump, of Seward County, Neb. June 
8, 1884, Mr. (Berber was again united in marriage, 
his wife being the widow of IL W. Shidler, late of 
Perry Township. Mrs. Gerber was born in Stark 
County, June 10, 183.3, and was a daughter of 
David and Susanna (Pence) Rothrock, natives of 
Pennsylvania. At an early day, they came to 
Stark County, where the mother died in 1840, and 
the father in 1886. They were worthy pioneer 
citizens of Stark County, and were highly es- 
teemed by all who knew them. Their daughter, 
by her first union, became the mother of four 
children, three of whom are now living: Mary, 
wife of Reuben II. Yutzey; Emma, who married 
E. E. Hartzell; and Olive, wife of R. T. Carnahan. 
Mr. and Mrs. Gerber are prominent members of the 
German Baptist Church, and are ever active in 
good works. 



ihM ATTHEAV B. EXCELL, a journalist of 
rare ability, is editor of the WeeAhj 
V! Leader at Alliance, one of the best publi- 
cations of its kind in Stark County. He 
also fills the responsible position of Mayor of the 
city, and is one who has demonstrated his ability 
in worldly affairs, and whose personal character is 
worthy of commendation. A native of Michigan, 
he was born in Jackson, July 1.3, 1869, and later 
removed with his parents to Cleveland, this State. 
He was a bright apt scholar, and when nineteen 
years old was graduated from tlie High School in 
Forest City, and later, attending the Mt. Union 
College, received a diploma from that institution 
in 1891. While in college, he was employed a 
part of the time as reporter on the Daily Leader, 
and in this way was enabled to pay his tuition. In 
Jul}', 1891, he was appointed city editor of the 



382 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Leader, and upon the consolidation of that paper 
with the Z)(7(7»/ i?eiv'e(/-, and the sale of the Weekly 
Leader to T. E. Wilson, Mr. Excell was given the 
editorial management of the latter paper, which 
position he filled until June last, being tlie young- 
est editor in charge in the .State. He has alwaj'S 
been of a literary turn of mind, and his taste in 
that direction developed so rapidly and his talent 
became so conspicuous, that he has been termed by 
the people of Stark Count>' the " boj- jour- 
nalist." 

Mr. Excell socially stands high in the Masonic 
fraternity, and is well known in public life. He 
is well adai)ted to journalism, as he brings to his 
work a clear, well-balanced, well-trained mind; is 
cool, just and discriminating in his judgment, and 
does not commit himself rashly to any new theory 
or scheme without giving it careful consideration. 
The Weekli/ Leader was established by Wallace H. 
Phelps in 187.5, and has grown until it now has a 
circulation of nearly four thousand copies in Stark, 
Columbiana, Portage and Mahoning Counties. 
Our subject was elected to his present position as 
Mayor of Alliance in April, 1892, and is the 
youngest incumbent of that office which the rec- 
ords show. 



"iflACOB F. SNYDER, of the firm of Hess, 
' Snyder & Co., is a practical machinist and 
^^ \ is Superintendent of the machine shop. He 
'f^fJ is a man of push and energy, and is in all 
branches of his business thoroughly versed and 
experienced. He was born in Massillon, Ohio, 
on the Gth of July, 1845, and here he passed his 
youth and received his education. His father, 
Yvcd Snyder, is represented in the sketch of George 
M. Snyder. 

The original of this notice was reared in his 
native town and received a liberal education here. 
After the death of his father, he resided for two 
years with an uncle on a farm in Perry Town- 
ship, and then vetuvued to Massillon, wUei'e lie 



was employed by Russsell & Co. for eighteen 
months, working in the machine shops. In 1861, 
he went to Wooster, Wayne County, and was in 
tho engine works of Barrett & Co., of that place, 
for one year. In 1864, he enlisted in the One 
Hundred and Sixty-second Regiment, Ohio Na- 
tional Guards, Company A, and went to Cleve- 
land. There he was transferred and mustered 
into Company E, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth 
Oiiio National Guards, and was sent to Washing- 
ton, where he was stationed at Ft. Ethan Allen. 
Later, he was detailed to carry rides and ammuni- 
tion down South, and he was atone time within 
one mile of Mosby's Cavalry, of six hundred men. 
He remained there until it was safe to go back to 
the fort. He remained in the service until Sep- 
tember, 1864, and then returned to Wooster, where 
he was engaged with Barrett ct Co. until 1868, 
and became a practical machinist. Thence he went 
to Canton, and was engaged in the Ball Works, 
manufacturing reapers, mowers, etc., he being eni- 
plojed in the manufacture of tools for the works, 
and having charge of one part of it. He remained 
here until 1871, and then worked for the Canton 
Saw Works, manufacturing tools for them for 
some time. 

Afterwards, our subject was with different man- 
ufactories until 1873, when he came to Massillon 
and assisted in setting up the machinery in the 
rolling mill here. About five months later, he re- 
turned to Canton, was engaged in the Peerless 
Works again for about three months, after which 
he was employed as a machinist by Russell it Co., 
of Massillon. A few months later, he determined 
to start in business for himself, and erected a 
machine shop and foundry on North Mill Street, 
where the Massillon Ice Plant is now located. He 
soon had a good business, and later erected new 
works with steam power. In 1882, he entered 
into partnership with Hess Bros., under the firm 
title of Hess, Snyder it Co., and this is now the 
second largest enterprise of tlie kind in the city. 

Mr. Snyder has been Superintendent of the 
machine shop and thoroughly understands eveiy 
detail of his business. This firm will soon build 
a four-story brick Iniilding, 50x117 feet, and they 
have all the iinproveiueuts for mivnufacturing hot 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



383 



air furnaces, cook and heating stoves, etc., and do a 
general jobbing business. Mr. Snj'der was mar- 
ried in Massillon, in 1867, to Miss Sarah Simmons, 
a native of this county, and the daughter of .Jacob 
Simmons, a farmer here. Four children have re- 
sulted from this union: AVallace E., a graduate of 
tlie High School, is siiipping clerk for Hess, 
Snyder Ar Co.; Estella A. is also a graduate of 
the High School; Leo G. and Ethel R., both at 
home. Mr. Snyder is a member of the German 
Lutheran Church, is Deacon in the same, and was 
Superintendent of the Sun daj' -school for three 
years. He was also Secretary and Treasurer of 
the Sunday-school for one year, and is still hold- 
ing the latter position. He adheres strictly to the 
Republican party in his political views. 



y 



a APT. SHEPHERD M. KNAPP, of the firm 
^ of Knapp iVr Dillon, tlie largest plumbers, 
' gas and steam fitters in Massillon, is a 
native of this city, having been born Marcii 23, 
1835, and is a son of William AV. Knapp, a native 
of Cummington, Mass. The grandfather of our 
subject, who also bore the name of William, was 
a farmer in the Bay State, where he lived and died 
on a farm. His ancestors were of Welsh descent 
and early settlers of Massachusetts. AVilhani 
Knapp, Sr., was a soldier in the AVar of 1812, and 
at his death was seventj'-two years of age. 

The father of our subject was reared to farm 
l)ursuits, and when reaching his sixteenth year was 
apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade. Going 
to New York when attaining his majority, he 
worked at liis trade until taking up his residence 
in this city. After removing hither, in company 
with John E. McLean and Squire Everhard, he 
engaged in the manufacture of tliresiiing-machines, 
their place of business being located at the corner 
of North Erie and North Streets. After disposing 
of his interests in that firm, jMr. Knapp, in company 
with Daniel Harbaugh, engaged in the grocery 



business, which partnership was dissolved a year 
later, and the father of our subject, with a Mr. 
Havelaud, engaged in the manufacture of thresh- 
ing-machines. In 1843, he went to Ann Arbor, 
Alich., and was there engaged in the same business 
until the fall of 1848, when he sold out his inter- 
ests and returned to Massillon and remained over 
winter, when he started to California, but died on 
his way at Ft. Independence, Mo. 

The mother of our subject bore the maiden name 
of Harriet Austin, and was a native of Vermont. 
Her father, Isaac Austin, was also a native of the 
Green Mountain State and a farmer by occupation. 
Mr. Austin came overland to this county at an 
early day, and was engaged in boating on the canal 
and in developing a farm. He departed this life 
at Loudonville, this State. The mother of our 
subject accompanied her parents on their removal 
hither, and made her home in this city until her 
decease, in March, 1878, when sevent>'-two vears 
of age. 

Our subject was one in a family of three sons 
and four daughters, only four of whom are living, 
and of whom he is the eldest but one. His brother, 
W. A., enlisted in 1861 as a member of Company 
A, Nineteenth Ohio Infantry-, and when mustered 
out, occupied the position of Captain; he is at 
present residing in Wasiiiugton, D. C, where for 
five years he was Chief Clerk in the United States 
Postoflfice Department. He was appointed Adju- 
tant-tieneral of Ohio under Gov. Ilaj'es, which po- 
sition he held for four years, and was the incum- 
bent of the same office for two years under Gov. 
Noyes and about six months under Gov. Allen. 

Our subject spent the years from ten to twelve 
in Ann Arbor, after which he went to Massachu- 
setts, where he worked on a farm and attended 
school in the winter season. In the fall of 
1849, he returned to his native town, where he 
went to school during the winter months, and 
worked on the farm of J. E. McLean during the 
busy season. In the spring of 1852, he again 
went to Massachusetts, where he spent the summer, 
and in the fall apprenticed himself to learn the 
machinist's trade under the firm of E. & T. Ring, 
of Norwich, that State, spending eighteen months 
so employed. In the spring of 1854, he came i)ack 



384 



portuah and biographical record. 



to Massillon, and was employed in Hart& Brown's 
shop for one year; then going to Cleveland he was 
engaged with the Cuyahoga Steam Furnace Co. 
in that line of work for one year, when again taking 
up his abode in this city, he entered the employ of 
■Russell & Co. August 9, 18(52, he enlisted in the 
Union army, joining Company E, One Hundred 
and Fourth Ohio Infantr}^, and w.as mustered in as 
Second Lieutenant. With his company he left for 
Kentucky, and eight days later participated in the 
battle of Ft. Mitchell. He was taken sick at Mt. 
Vernon and was sent home on a furlough. After 
three months, Mr. Knapp rejoined his regiment at 
Knoxville, Tenn., which place he had much diffi- 
culty in reaching safely. He participated in the 
siege at that point, where he had command of his 
conipan3'. During the winter, he received his ap- 
pointment as First Lieutenant of another company 
t)ut did not acee])t it. 

In the spring of 1864, our subject joined Slier- 
man's army, being mustered into service as First 
Lieutenant, and commanded his compan}- alone 
until the fall of Atlanta. He was then transferred 
to Companj' B, of the same regiment, of which he 
was again given command, and after the battle of 
Nashville was again transferred and placed at Ft. 
Fisher with his regiment, where he was promoted 
to be Cajitain of Company D, and acting in that 
capacity fought at the battle of Old Town Creek, 
which gave them possession of Ft. Anderson and 
the city of Wilmington. With his command, Mr. 
Knapp went to Goldsboro, from there to Raleigh, 
and after the surrender of Gen. Johnston, his regi- 
ment was ordered to go to Greensboro to receive 
the surrender of that general. June 17, 186.5, he 
was mustered out of service at Greensboro, and 
was paid off and received his final discharge at 
Cleveland, July 3d of that year. On again re- 
turning to the peaceful pursuits of life, our subject 
engaged in the machine shops of the Excelsior 
Works, with which he remained until the fall of 
1868. Later, he was in tiie employ of Russell & 
Co., with whom he remained until Feln-uary, 1881, 
when he established liis present business in com- 
pany with j\Ir. Dillon. 

August 14, 1862, Miss Barbara S. Anderson, 
a native of Scotland, became the wife of our sub- 



ject. vSlie came with her parents to this country 
when a small girl, and was reared to mature years 
in North Blooinfield, Ohio. The two children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Knapp are Anna B., now 
Mrs. Thornburg, of Boston, Mass., and Harriet, 
Mrs. Merwin, of this city. Our subject is a memlier 
of the Grand Army Post, in which he is Past Sen- 
ior Vice-commander. He is a stanch Republican 
in politics, and one of the wide-awake, prosperous 
business men of this city. 



ETER BALMAT. .Mr. Balmat is to-day 
I ])i ])robably the most influential and esteemetl 
living factor in Louisville, Ohio, and is at 
[iresent manager of the Empire Clay Com- 
pany, manuf.acturers of vitrified salt-glazed build- 
ing blocks and steps, paving-brick, drain-tile, fire- 
brick, and all fire-clay products. 

Mr. Balmat is a native of Washington Township, 
Stark County, Ohio, his birth occurring on the 
29th of September, 1851. His parents, Michael 
and Mai\y F. Balmat. were both natives of France, 
where they passed their youthful days and were 
married. As bett r opportunities were afforded in 
the ITnited States, they decided to cross the ocean 
and make their future home in America. The 
father was a soldier under Napoleon I, and served 
for some time. In 1847, he made the trip to 
America, and shortly afterward located in Stark 
County, Ohio, where he bought an extensive tract 
of land. Many years were passed in improving 
and cultivating this land, and it at last became 
one of the best farms in the county. On this 
farm, where he had spent the best years of his life, 
the father of our subject received his final sum- 
mons in 1878, when eighty-five years of age. 

The youthful days of our subject was passed in 
assisting his father on the farm, and in receiving 
a good practical education in the common schools. 
Being- naturally possessed of an active and bright 
mind, he improved all his siiare moments, and 
when nineteen years of age he began wielding the 




Samuel Reinjoehl 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



387 



ferrule. He became well known as one of the 
prominent and successful educators, and tauglit 
fifteen terms of scliool. In 1874, he took a course 
in Iron City Business College, at Pittsburgli, and 
in 1879 he was appointed Postal Clerk from Pitts- 
burgh to Indianapolis, also on other lines. Wliile 
in the postal service, he met Miss Rosa Maudru, a 
native of Wasliington Townsliip. Stark County, 
where slie was born on the 19th of February, 1856, 
and they were married on the 20tli of September, 
1881. 

After leaving the postal service, our subject 
again resumed teaching, but after continuing this 
for some time, turned his attention to his present 
business in April, 1890. This business is the most 
extensive of the kind in the county, and they 
have a capacity of three hundred and fifty thous- 
and bricks per year. In his politics, Mr. Balmat 
is a Republican, but he has never aspired to office. 
He IS a member of the Holy Catholic Church, and 
was confirmed at the early age of tliirteen. He is 
also a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit As- 
sociation, and is a man who is deeply interested in 
all measures and enterprises for the upbuilding 
and improvement of his town and county. 



i>^^<m^—<- 



SAMUEL REINOEHL, deceased, played an 
impoitant part in the development of 
) Stark County as one of its most cnterpris- 
ing, far-seeing and clear-headed farmers. 
He was born in this county, September 23, 1848, 
and at his death, which occurred September 5, 
1890, had acquired a handsome ])roperty, which is 
located in Tuscarawas Township. 

Henry and Susan Reinoehl, the parents of our 
subject, were natives of Pennsylvania and early 
settlers of Lawrence Township, the father having 
been brought hither when a young boy and reared 
to man's estate in this .section. His life calling 
was that of an agriculturist, and the improvements 
on his estate rank with the best in this vicinity. 
Our subject received his primary education in the 

;9 



district schools, which was later supplemented by 
attendance at Smithville Academy-, in Wayne 
County, this State, and, when starting out in life 
for himself, brouglit a cultured, well-trained mind 
to bear upon the problems that beset the skilled 
agriculturist, who seeks to till the soil after the l)cst 
methods, so as to make it produce abundantly 
without exhausting its natural fertility. 

January 4, 1875, Mi'. Reinoehl was married to 
Miss Jennie, daughter of John and Margaret Ral)er. 
She was born December 11, 1852, and by her mar- 
riage with our subject has become the mother of 
three children, who bear the respective names of 
Delia M., Vinnie I. and Samuel R. Our subject 
departed this life September 5, 1890, deeply 
mourned by his numerous friends. He was liberal 
in his support of whatever tended to the moral 
and religious elevation of his community, and was 
a lo3'al citizen. He was a Republican in politics, 
and a firm believer in the superiority^ of that 
party's principles and government. 

At his death, Mr. Reinoehl left one hundred 
and sixty acres of land, which, by persistent in- 
dustry, he had improved into a good farm, and 
from which he reaped an income sufficient to keep 
up the pleasant home in which he resided. Mrs. 
Reinoehl is a most excellent lady, well educated 
and refined, and taught school several terms in 
Wayne and Stark Counties. In closing this record 
of the life of our subject, we will add that a patient. 
I'esolute nature, a keen love of business, accuracy 
of judgment, together with honesty of purpose 
and act, were his distinguishing traits, and marked 
him as a true type of our self-made men. 



i****! 



'^♦•5-*F 



"iflOHN B. BISSONNfeTTE is the Manager of 
the Fulton Tool and Manufacturing Com- 
pany, of Canal Fulton, in which he also 
owns a one-third interest. This is one of 
the leading industries of the city, and our subject 
is one of the prominent business men. He was 
born six miles from Lyons, France, June 8, 1840, 



388 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



and was the seventh in a family of fourteen chil- 
dren, whose parents were J. and Angellique (Den- 
nis) Bissonnetlc. They were also natives of France 
and the father was a farmer by occupation. In 
1843, the latter emigrated with his family to 
Canada, locating forty-five miles above Montreal, 
where he became a large land-owner and a wealthj' 
man. His death occurred in 1848. His wife long 
survived him and died in Canada in 1886. Of 
their family of eight sons and six daughters, six 
sons and two daughters grew to mature years, and 
three sons and two daughters are 3-et living. 

Our subject was only three years old when his 
parents emigrated to America. He remained in 
Canada until 1854, when, at the age of fourteen 
years, he started out in life for himself. In the 
summer he sailed upon the Lakes, and in the 
winter formed one of the crew in an ocean vessel. 
In 1858, he was made second mate on the shi|) 
" St. Peter," running from New Orleans to France, 
and held that office for eight months, when he 
abandoned the sea. Mr. Bissonnette then went to 
Pittsburgh and for seven months was a bar-tender, 
but during that time never tasted liquor. He then 
began clerking in the grocer^' store of John B. 
Snealhen, of that place, with whom he remained 
until .June 4, 1861. 

In that month, Mr. Bissonnette went to Phila- 
delphia, Pa., for the purpose of joining the United 
.States navy, but there was then no vacanc\-. He 
then attempted to enlist in the Twenty-eighth 
Pennsylvania Infantry, but was not tall enough, 
and was afterward again rejected by another 
Pennsylvania regiment for the same reason. Still 
anxious to enter the service, lie went to Trenton, 
N. J., and became a member of Company H, First 
New Jersej- Infantry, in which he served for three 
years, when, at the expiration of his term, he was 
discharged, June 23, 1864. During one engage- 
ment, he was struck by a ball on the left side of 
his breast but a small Bible in his vest-pocket saved 
him. Another time, a ball just grazed his face, 
leaving a mark, and he had several other narrow 
escapes. 

After his discharge, Mr. Bissonnette returned to 
Canada, where he remained until the 6tli of June, 
1865. He then went to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and 



took a course in a business college there, and was 
graduated with second honors in a class of thirty- 
eight. He was graduated on the same day that 
President Lincoln was assassinated. (ioing to 
Pittsburgh, he secured a position as book-keeper 
with Jarvis it Co., plumbers and steam-fitters, with 
whom he remained until 1870, when he bought a 
half-interest in the brass foundry and finishing 
works of Mansfield k Company at No. 13 Second 
Avenue. To that business he devoted his energies 
until March 18, 1877, when the factory was burned, 
after which he spent one year with the Anchor 
Foundry and Machine Company. On account of 
sickness, he then sold out to Wliorton McKiiight, 
who is still carrying on the business. In 1879, he 
engaged as Manager with Jarvis it Graj-, proprietors 
of a machine and steam-fitting establishment at 
Pittsburgh, serving as book-keei)er and manager 
until 1883. 

On the 1st of April of that j'car, Mr. Bissonnette 
removed to Canton, Ohio, and in company with 
A. L. Klaus purchased the Canton Tool Company 
in Jul}', 1883, removing it to Canal Fulton, when 
the name was changed to the Fulton Tool and 
Manufacturing Cotnpan}'. They employ some 
twent^'-eight men and manufacture coal miner's 
and stone mason's tools. They run fourteen fires, 
five trip-hammers, and one large hammer run by 
steam which does all the heavy work. They do 
all their own forging and buy their steel by the 
car load. Their work is all finished by hand and 
each tool bears the "Fulton " stamp. They em- 
ploy none but the best workmen and as their tools 
are thus alwaj's first-class, they find a ready sale 
and are shipped to almost every State in the Tnion. 
In connection with this business, the firm has lately- 
purchased the business of the AVilson Patent Safety 
Break and Spregg Company, and will manufacture 
those implements. They make one hundied and 
thirty different kinds of picks, for all kinds of coal 
and stone work, using only the best material, and 
their annual sales amount to about ^54,000. 

Mr. Bissonnette is a member and Adjutant of 
Canal Fulton Post No. 385, G. A. R., also belongs 
to the Odd Fellows' society, the Masonic fraternity 
and the Knights of Honor. He is one of the most 
prominent citizens of Canal Fulton and his busi- 



POETRAIT AND T5I0GRAPIIICAL EECORD. 



389 



ness is a valued addition to its enterprises, lie is 
:i man of most excellent business ability, sagacious 
and enterprising, and by fair dealing and the ap- 
iilication of correct business principles hasaequired 
a liandsonie competence. He is now acting as 
I5irector of the Union School District of Canal 
Fulton. lie was first married, February 3, 1870, 
to Miss Fallen M. Smith, of Hamburg, Pa., and by 
this marriage has three children: F'rank J., Wesley 
S. and Florence G. Miss Fallen Smith died in 
1887. He was married again , June 20, 1889, to 
Susie Zeller, of Canal Fulton. 



'jfOIIN B. WIIITMF:R. This steady-going and 
reliable citizen is one of those forming the 
bone and sinew of the community, and 
has assisted in establisliing its financial pros- 
perity and upbuilding the standard of morality. 
His life occupation has been that of a farmer, in 
which he has been very successful, accumulating a 
good property and fortifying himself against the 
days when, by reason of advancing years, he ma}' 
be unfitted for active labor. The farm is one of 
the best in Bethlehem Township, is pleasantly 
located on section 1 1, and contains two hundi'ed 
and eighty-two acres of land. With its well-tilled 
fields, substantial buildings and general air of 
plenty, the place is one of the most attractive in 
the localit}'. 

Our subject, who is a native of this county, was 
born February 6, 1822, and is the son of Benjamin 
and Barbara Whitmer, natives of Pennsylvania. 
The father of our subject emigrated to Stark 
County in an early day, and located on an unim- 
proved farm in Bethlciiem Township. Here he 
erected a log cabin and resided with his family, 
enduring many of tlie hardships incident to a life 
in an undeveloped country. He succeeded in 
l)lacing his estate under excellent cultivation, 
and upon it he was residing at the time of his de- 
cease in 1851. 



Our subject, who was reared amid the pioneer 
scenes in this county, assisted his father in carry- 
ing on the farm, and during the winter seasons at- 
tended school in the log cabin. His advantages, 
however, were very limited, and he may truly be 
called self-made. May 4, 1845, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Martha Reed, whose birth oc- 
curred in this county, May 12, 1819. She is the 
daughter of Jacob and Fllizabeth (Kaufman) Reed, 
natives of the Keystone State and early residents 
of this county. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Whitmer have been born eight 
children, two of whom are deceased. Those living 
are: Lovina, Mrs. Samuel Darr; Barbara A., Eli, 
Samuel, Enos and David. The two deceased are 
William and George. In 1846, our subject located 
upon his present farm, where he has resided since 
that time. As before stated, his estate is a valu- 
able one, and by a proper rotation of crops is made 
to yield a handsome income. 

He of whom we write served nine years as 
School Director in his district, and as a man of in- 
fluence and prominence, well deserves representa- 
tion in this volume, and it is with pleasure that 
we present his sketch to our readers. He is a 
stanch Democrat in politics, and takes great interest 
in everything which concerns his party. He is a 
consistent nsember of the Lutheran Church, and 
contributes liberally of his means to the supjjort 
of the cause. Mr. Whitmer possesses in a marked 
degree the characteristics of enterprise and in- 
dustry, which traits, together with the use of sound 
judgment in business affairs, have brought him 
success. 



•^^- 



a APT. WILLIAM SMITH WILLIAMS, 
President and Secretary of the Shale Brick 
Exchange, of Canton, Ohio, was born near 
this city, April 23, 1835, and is a son of (ieorge 
and Mary (Smith) Williams. His father was a 
native of Pennsylvania, and became a resident of 
Stark Countv in ISIO. But few industries were 



390 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



open to the early settlers at that date, and his 
vocation was principally farming and the manu- 
facture of brick. Industrious, honest and enter- 
prising, he was soon looked upon as a valuable 
acquisition to the band of pioneers. 

Our subject spent the first twenty years of his 
life on a farm, acquiring his education in the pub- 
lic .schools of Canton. When a young man, he 
served as a Lieutenant in a militia company, called 
the Canton Light Guards, and was afterward made 
Captain of the Canton Battery. Possessing a 
superior mathematical mind, his inclinations only 
turned to the department of civil engineering and 
its kindred branches, and while in the High School 
he paid especial attention to his favorite science. 
With this preliminary preparation, he fitted him- 
self for his profession by his own efforts, by pri- 
vate study and by practice in the field. His first 
engagement was as Assistant Civil Engineer of 
the southwest branch of the Pacific Railroad, 
running from St. Louis into the Indian Territory. 
In 1858, he was admitted to the Bar in Ohio, and 
in Missouri in 18.59, having previously read law 
under the late Judge G. W. Belden, of Canton. 

In the spring of 1861, Mr. Williams entered the 
service of the Government as Lieutenant in an 
independent battery of artillery, and was engaged 
in the battles of Scarey Creek and Hawk's Nest in 
Western Virginia. In November, 1861, he was 
commissioned by Gov. Dennison to raise another 
batter}', which was known as the Third Ohio In- 
dependent Battery, with which Mr. AVilliams 
served as Captain, making for himself a highly- 
creditable military record. He participated in the 
battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Raymond, Champion 
Hills, siege of A'icksburg, Clinton, Kcnesaw 
Mountain, siege of Atlanta, Legget's Bald Knob, 
Ezra Church, Jone.sboro and Lovejoy Station. For 
a part of the time he was Chief of Artillery of 
Gen. Logan's Staff, Third Division, Seventeenth 
Army Corps, and subsequently occupied the .same 
position on the staff of Gen. M. D. Legget. After 
the fall of Atlanta, the artillery of the Seventeenth 
Corps was formed into a brigade, and Capt. 
Williams was assigned to the command of it as 
Chief of Artillery. This brigade com[)rised all 
the artillery of the Seventeenth Army Corps, and 



served as such until mustered out in December, 
1864. During his whole military' career, he dis- 
tinguished himself as a brave soldiei and an excel- 
lent and intrepid officer. His superior qualifica- 
tions for the position, together with his gentle- 
manly bearing and courteous manner, rendered 
him one of the most popular officers in the corps. 
He is a member of the societ}' of the Army of the 
Tennessee, and has been honored with the office of 
Vice-president. He is also a member of the 
INIilitary Order of Loyal Legion. 

In politics, the Captain is a stanch Republican. 
Shortly after his return from the army, he was ap- 
pointed County Surve3-orof Stark County, serving 
one term, and subsequently was City Engineer of 
Canton for several years. In 1872, he was ap- 
pointed Resident Civil Engineer of Public Works 
of the State of Ohio. In the years 1872 and 
1873, he was Inspector of Railroads for the State 
of Ohio, under Commissioner Walcot, and again 
in 1876 and 1877, under L. G. Delano. 

In 1884, Captain Williams began experimenting 
in the manufacturing of paving brick from shale, 
the first manufactured west of the Ohio River. 
The works are located west of the Valley Rail- 
road. He has energetically prosecuted the work, 
and his discoveries in the manufacture of paving 
brick from shale have developed one of Canton's 
most important industries. The shale brick is of a 
superior quality, and when vitrified is capable of 
resisting a greater pressure than granite. In con- 
nection with this, Capt. AVilliams also manufactures 
a very superior quality of fire brick. The excel- 
lence of these two kinds of brick is so well estab- 
lished and the orders come in so fa.st that it is 
with diflScultj- the demand is met. The capacity 
of the works is over three million bricks annually. 
Our subject is now President and Secretary' of the 
Shale Brick Exchange, of Canton, and is one of the 
most prominent and influential business men of 
the city. 

On the 17th of .January, 1872, Capt. Williams 
married P]mma, daughter of the late Dr. Frederick 
Hurxthal, of Massillon, late Sergeant of the Nine- 
teenth Ohio Regiment. They had one sOn, 
Frederick, who died at the age of nineteen years. 
Their home, situated at No. 275 North Cleveland 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



391 



Avenue, is a fine brick residence, surrounded with 
extensive grounds. The fine lawn is adorned with 
njan3' native trees, and also with some beautiful 
pines. Capt. Williams is a gentleman of fine 
scholarl_y attainments and occupies a prominent 
rank among the leading civil engineers of the 
State. He is thoroughly devoted to his depart- 
ment of industry, and his military and profes- 
sional record alike entitle him to high regard as 
a patriot and a citizen. 



m^^^-^^m^ 



^OHN ^Y. REINOEHL, who is a veteran of 
I ! the late war, with an honorable record for 

d) braver}' and devotion to the cause of his 
.^_JJ country, won in some of the hardest fought 
battles in the Rebellion, is a very successful farmer, 
one of the foremost in his line of business in Tus- 
carawas Township. He is a native of this county, 
having been born January 10, 1842, to William 
and Louisa (Bowman) Reinoehl, natives of Leb- 
anon County, Pa. 

The father of our subject, in company with his 
parents and other members of his family, emi- 
grated to this county in 1831, and located in Law- 
rence Township, where thej- continued to reside 
until 1804. The elder Mr. Reinoehl when arriv- 
ing here had not much mone^-, but he was well 
endowed with the energy, perseverance and capac- 
ity for hard work that serves a man oftentimes 
better than money. In 1854, he came to this 
township, where lie was lesiding at the time of 
his decease, which occurred in 1873. 

Only two children were comprised in the paren- 
tal family, our subject and his sister Maiy. The 
former was reared to mature years in this section, 
and though on the outset subjected to the manj- 
inconveniences of opening up a new country, 
aided his father in clearing up a good farm, which 
was supplied with good buildings and well-equip- 
ped with practical machinery. He received a 
limited education in the district schools, and al- 
though never ntlonding college, was of studious 



habits, and being a close observer, obtained a prac- 
tical knowledge that has served him to good pur- 
pose. 

In August, 1862, John W. Reinoehl enlisted in 
the Union arm}-, becoming a member of Company 
E, One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry, being- 
mustered ill as a private, and during his period of 
service fought under Gens. Gilmore, Burnside 
and Schofield. • He participated in the first battle 
of Knoxville, and at the light at Franklin received 
a fracture of the skull, from which injury he was 
confined in the hospital for three months. On re- 
ceiving his honorable discharge at Columbus, in 
June, 1865, our subject returned home and has 
since been engaged in agricultural pursuits. 

Miss Susan Groff, who was born in Lancaster 
County, Pa., June 7, 1843, became the wife of our 
subject June 6, 1867. She is the daughter of 
Benjamin and Anne Groff and. to them have been 
born four children: Emma, Edwin, Ella and El- 
mer. Mr. Reinoehl has always taken an active in- 
terest in school affairs and has been selected to fill 
the office of School Director for several years. In 
politics, he casts his vote and influence in favor of 
Republican candidates, which party he believes to 
be in the right. He is a conscientious member of 
the Brethren-in-Christ Church, and is always ready 
to do another a kindness and to extend his help 
and sympathy to all in trouble. His estate, which 
comprises one hundred and ninetj'-six acres, is ex- 
ceedingly fertile land and is provided with well- 
equipped farm structures that are complete in 
their arrangements .and well stocked with good 
grades of animals. 



AVID SPONSELLEH. The farming inter- 
ests of Canton Township are well repre- 
sented by this gentleman, who is one of 
its most skilled and prominent farmers 
and whose valuable estate is one of the best in the 
county. The Spoiiscllcr family located in this 



392 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAI'HICAL RECORD. 



section as earl^- as 1814, and hence has been closely 
connected with its history, as will be found by re- 
ferring to the sketch of Abraham Sponsellcr, else- 
where in this volume. Liijc many of tlie best res- 
idents of this county, our subject was born within 
its limits, his birth occurring on section 25 of tiie 
above township, April 24, 18.37. His boyhood was 
passed on the old homestead and his earliest recol- 
lections are of the surrounding pioneer scenes. He 
remembers seeing deer, turkej'S and wolves, and 
recalls the time when there were no roads here and 
the settlers crossed the prairies following the trails 
made bj- Indians. He obtained his early educa- 
tion in an old log schoolhouse, which was fitted 
up with slab benches, puncheon floor, stick and 
clay chimney, and an open fireplace. He remained 
at home until twenty-three years of age and took 
care of his parents, he being the youngest of the 
family. 

February 14, 1860, Mr. .Sponseller and Miss 
Elizabeth Kropt, who was born in this county, in 
1837, were united in marriage. A sketch of her 
family will be found in the biography of her bro- 
ther, William Kropt, occupying another page in 
this work. Of the eight children born to our sub- 
ject and his wife, we make the following mention : 
Mary E.; Alice, who married John Rindchen, a 
carpenter in Canton; Laura A., Mrs. Samuel Swartz, 
whose husband is a farmer in Osnaburg Township; 
Ada, the wife of William Kitzmiller, a coal miner 
in this locality; Cora, Katie, Sonora and William. 

After his marriage, our subject farmed the home 
place, getting one-third of the profits, and later, 
when providing himself with a team and other 
necessar3' implements, was given a one-half share 
until the death of his father, when he fell heir to 
the homestead, comprising two hundred and twenty 
acres of land. He devotes his time to mixed farm- 
ing and keeps on his place good breeds of cattle, 
horses and sheep. He is a sensible, practical, effici- 
ent man in the discharge of his affairs and in his 
personality is moral, conscientious and upright. 
His present neat frame residence was erected in 1875 
and the estate is further embellished by a large 
barn and all the necessary outbuildings, which 
stamp its owner as a man of progress and enter- 
prise. In his political views, he is a Hepuhlican, 



and in objects which will tend to increase the pros- 
perity of the country, particularlj' in that commu- 
nity in which he makes his home, Mr. Sponseller is 
interested. He has been a member of the Lutheran 
Church for the past thirty-five years and contrib- 
utes liberally of his means towards its support. 

When the father of our subject came to this 
county, his worldly possessions consisted of a one- 
horse wagon, two cows and one cent in money. 
Where now stands the prosperous city of Canton, 
were three log houses, and in going thither lie 
used to crawl from log to log to keep from getting 
wet. Coffee at that time was fift}' cents per pound, 
and the first year his famil}- only used one pound. 
The nearest market was Cleveland, and after dis- 
posing of his grain there he would bring home on 
the return trip salt, for which two barrels of flour 
were exchanged, leather, etc. 



e^+^ 



"S^iOBERT PHEHSON. Among all the resi- 
m^ dents of Stark County, none show greater 
<4i \ aptitude for business transactions, or better 
judgment in the conduct of affairs, than Mr. 
Pherson, whose home is in Sugar Creek Township. 
His farm comprises two hundred and ninety-six 
acres of land, on which he has made the improve- 
ments which make it one of the attractive and 
well-regulated estates in the neighborhood. The 
crops that are best suited to the soil and climate 
are raised, and also stock of good grades. Mr. 
Pherson has had an experience of jears in the 
management of agricultural and business affaiis, 
and is well known and respected for the honesty 
and sincerity of his character, and has the friend- 
shiii of the best men in the community. 

Born in this county, November 19, 1837, our 
subject is a son of Theophilus ami Eliza (Tate) 
Pherson, the father being born in the North of 
Ireland and the mother in the Keystone State. 
The former, in 1829. determined to try his fortune 
in America, and with this end in view set sail for 
the United States, and after a tedious vovage 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



393 



landed at his destination. Making bis wa}' directly 
to this county, lie worked for a time on the Ohio 
Canal, and then, being desirous of following the 
life of an agriculturist, jjurchased and located 
upon the farm which our subject now calls his 
own. He was here married, and became the father 
of a family of eight children, all of whom are liv- 
ing with but one exception, and who bear tlie re- 
spective names of Jane, Mrs. Rev. W. Thomas; 
Elizabeth, Mrs. -J. M. Trubey, whose sketch appears 
on another page in this volume; John, Robert, 
Almina, William and Albert. Mary Ann, Mrs. 
Jillott, is deceased. He passed through all the hard- 
ships which the pioneers in this section endured, 
and at his death, which occurred in Februaiy, 
1848, left his family nicely situated. 

Robert Pherson, of this sketch, retains a vivid 
recollection of the land when it was scarcely more 
than a primeval forest. He was the recipient of 
but limited schooling, as he was obliged to per- 
form many home duties which are usual to the lot 
of a farmer boy, and as he lived in the country, 
had to walk to school. The first temple of learn- 
ing was a log structure, having slab benches with 
pin legs, and all the primitive surroundings of 
that day. When ready to establish a home of his 
own, he was married, February 22, 1859, to Miss 
Lydia, the daughter of Samuel Hall, of Sugar 
Creek Township. Of their union, five children 
were born, only one of whom is deceased. Those 
living are: Ida, Mrs. Willis Putnam; Maiy, the 
wife of John Gessaker; Clara and Gertie. Ursula 
died when twenty-three years old. 

Mr. Pherson started in life a poor man, but by 
close attention to the affairs he had in hand, and 
unflagging zeal, he has secured a competence, and 
is now classed among the well-to-do farmers of the 
township. He gives his political adherence to the 
Republican party, and as one of the old residents 
of the county, has ever taken a warm interest in 
its development and welfare. For four terms he 
held the office of Township Trustee, and during 
his incumbency of that ottice performed the duties 
in an entirely satisfactory manner. He is an 
earnest worker in the United Brethren Church, 
and has held the position of Trustee in that body. 
Mr. Pherson possesses that energy and tact which 



invariably bring success to their owner, and he is 
adding to his popularity and also to his financial 
standing each year, and ranks high in the esteem 
of his community. 



"iTp^ANIEL MEYER, whose sketch now invites 
I Jll attention from the reader, is a self-made 
If)^ man in the most comprehensive meaning of 
that term, and one who by dint of natural ability 
and perseverance has raised himself from the bot- 
tom to the top round of the laddev of success. 
His earlj- opportunities were poor indeed, but, as 
is daily proven, everything is possible to one who 
possesses strength of character and push, and these 
Mr. Meyer possesses in a marked degree. He is at 
present residing on section 10, Bethlehem Town- 
ship, where he is engaged in farming and stock- 
raising, making a specialty of the latter branch of 
agriculture. 

A native of this .State, our subject was born in 
Tuscarawas County, April 22, 1843, to Charles and 
Catherine Meyer, the former of whom is deceased. 
The mother of our subject, who is still living, 
makes her home in Tuscarawas County and is now 
in her eighty-fifth year. The eleven children born 
to herself and husband bore the respective names 
of George, John, Daniel, Jacob, Charles, Heniy, 
Margaret, Mary, Callie D., Catherine and Chris- 
tina. 

Mr. Meyer of this sketch grew to manhood in 
his native county, and being trained to a thorough 
knowledge of farm work, has made that his calling. 
He obtained a fair education in the district school, 
and although he had not the opportunities offered 
the youth of to-day, made the best of his advan- 
tages and obtained a good knowledge of books. The 
lady to whom he was married July 17, 1870, bore 
the name of Mary J. Knaijpenbergcr, who was born 
March 6, 1851, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. To 
them has been born a family of four children, 
three of whom are living: Cullen, Leafa, Clin- 
ton, and Orin, the latter of whom is deceased. 



394 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



In 1874, Mr. Meyer came to Stark County, with 
whose interests he has since been actively identi- 
fied and now ranks among its most prosperous 
citizens. His ple.asant estate comprises one hun- 
dred and fifty-seven and three-fourths acres of 
valuable land, upon whicli are to be found the 
latest improvements in the way of buildings and 
machinery. He is now serving as Clerk of the 
School Board of his district, and in his political 
relations is a stanch member of the Democratic 
party. He is a man of sensible views, sound com- 
mon-sense and industrious habits, which is perhaps 
the secret of his present high standing in the com- 
munity. Religiously, he is a member of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church. 



^ 



■if/OHN McWHINNEY. When a man is 
known to have experienced man3' trials, 
and to have labored hard to make his wa}- 
in the world, it is a source of gratification 
to his friends to know that he has succeeded in 
reaching a height that enables him to take life 
very eas}-. This is the case with the gentleman 
above named, whose ability to make money has 
been abundantly illustrated, and whose career 
should encoiu-age others to renewed energy, as it 
is not luck, but pluck, that has brought him a 
competencj'. He fought bravely during the late 
war .IS a soldier in the Army of the Cumberland, 
and is now numbered among the prominent tillers 
of the soil in Sugar Creek Township. 

Our subject is a native of this county, his birth 
having occurred June 13, 1835. His parents were 
John and Nancy McWhinney, the former a na- 
tive of the North of Ireland, while the latter was 
born in Pennsylvania. John McWhinne3', Sr.j 
emigrated when a young man to the United 
States, and in 1829 came to this countj- and made 
a settlement on the farm where our subject now 
lives. He located with his familj^ on this tract 
of land, making a home in a rude loa' cabin, wliile 



lie worked with persistence to place his land under 
cultivation and supply his home with comforts. 
B3- liis marriage with Miss Nancy Wholf, he be- 
came the father of five children, of whom tlu'ee 
are living, viz.: Mary J., the widow of John Welty ; 
Margaret, the widow of Christian Kaylor, and our 
subject. The husband and fatlier departed this 
life in 1863. His earnest character, benevolent 
disposition and kind heart endeared him to all 
whom he met, but his loss fell heaviest on her b^' 
whose side he Iiad walked for man.y years, and to 
whose interests he was devoted. 

Our subject can remember wlien Stark County 
was a. sparsely settled wilderness and plenty of 
deer and wild game abounded. He attended the pio- 
neer schools, where he obtained such an education 
as was offered, and was only a boy when he com- 
menced to work with his father. September 1, 
1861, on the outbreak of the late war, he enlisted 
in the Union armj- and became a member of Com- 
pany F, Nineteenth Ohio Infantrj^, while his 
regiment became a part of tlie Army of the Cum- 
berland. He participated in all tlie battles inci- 
dent to tlie Atlanta campaign, and during the 
siege of that city received such injuries as occa- 
sioned his discharge, Jul}' 22, 1804. AVhen he re- 
turned home at the close of a soldier's life, he 
resumed farming, and has been prosjiered in his 
operations, becoming the proprietor of two hun- 
dred and thirty-two acres of land. His estate is 
well developed, embellished with a good substan- 
tantial farm house, barns, gianaries, etc., and is 
supplied with farm machiiierj* and stocked with 
domestic animals of good breeds and grades. In 
recognition of his services during the war, the 
Government awards to our subject a pension of 
^8 per month. 

October 9, 1861, Miss Elizabeth Hall, daughter of 
Samuel and Susan Hall, became the wife of our 
subject. Her parents were early settlers of Sugar 
Creek Township, where they were representative 
citizens and well-to-do in tliis world's goods. By 
their union, iMr. and Mrs. McWhinney have be- 
come the parents of six children: Carrie E., Ster- 
ling J., Cullen II., Columbia V., Minnie H. and 
Jessie N. For four years, our subject served as 
Trustee of his township, and his military and 








RljIDlNCEOF JOHil lv|c.vVhlNNLr;OEC, ^,ji.,oUGAr^ CRELK T P., STARK CO,,Q. 




RE5. OF ISAAC KAUFFMAN J R,, S LCI., BETHLEHEM TR. STARK CO.,0. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



397 



civil record is higiil.y Lonorable,and we are pleased 
to give this brief pen picture of it in this work. 

The geiitleumn of whom we write has taken 
an acti\e part in the meetings of the United 
Brethren Church, of which lie is a member, and 
has served for some time as Trustee, Steward and 
Class-leader of that body. Sociallj', he is a Grand 
Army man, a prominent Mason and a member of 
tlie Knights of Pythias. He is a t^-pical repre- 
sentative of the progressive agriculturists, and by 
his integritj^ and unimpeachable character enjoj'S 
the full confidence of the people. He carries on 
mixed farming and manages his affairs so well 
that, though he began life with limited means, he 
now occupies a front rank among the farmers of 
this eount3'. 



' SAAC KAUFFJIAN is a fine representative of 
our self-made, self-educated men, and the work 
he has accomplished has placed him among 
tiie well-to-do, intelligent farmers who have borne 
so prominent a i)art in building up tlie State of 
Oliio. He is at present residing on section 1, 
Uethiehem Township, where he has a good estate, 
and in addition to cultivating the soil, is engaged 
extensively in stock-raising. 

Like many of the best citizens of this section, 
our subject was born in Somerset Countj', Pa., 
February 21, 1847, and is a son of Isaac Kauff- 
man, also a native of the Ke3'stone State. His 
great-grandfather, who was a native of Switzer- 
land, came to America in 1684. Isaac Kaufifman, 
wlio was a well-known and honored resident of 
liis native place, died in 1886. 

He of whom we write was reared to farm pur- 
suits, which occupation he has made his life call- 
ing, and an account of his successful career to 
those who peruse this biography may afford en- 
couragement to many young men who are just 
starting out in life with no other capital than an 
enterprising and persevering spirit and a good 
capacity for steady labor. Mr. Kauffman is a man 



of good, sturdy, common sense, rare judgment and 
fine business tact. He is well-informed, having 
been a great reader all his life, and from books 
and observation has obtained a good practical 
education. 

Our subject came to this county in 1867, and 
began working out by the month on farms, re- 
ceiving as remuneration for his labors $20 per 
month for about eight months in the year. He 
was thus employed for about eight years, and when 
ready to establish a home of his own was married, 
in October, 1873, to Miss Sarah, daughter of Samuel 
Masters of this county. To them have been born 
two children, Clara E., who was born Decem- 
ber 21, 1874, and I^aura E., who was born M.ay 31, 
1878. 

Mr. Kauffman of this sketch is the owner of one 
hundred and four acres of land which his industry' 
has placed under excellent cultivation, and from 
which he reaps a handsome income, hi his politi- 
cal relations, he votes with the Repulilican part}', 
and is in favor of all measures which are intended 
to improve the county and elevate society. He 
has always been active in school affairs, and for 
two years served as a member of the Township 
Board. 

September 4, 1864, our subject enlisted in the 
Union army and became a member of Compan}' 
K, Two Hundred and Sixth Pennsylvania Lifan- 
try, being mustered in as a private. He saw much 
active service as a member of the Army of the 
James, which was under the command of Gen. 
Butler. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, 
June 26, 1865, Mr. Kauffman returned home and 
has since been engaged in cultivating the soil. 
Sociall^r, he is a member of the Grand Army Post 
at Navarre, and as a member of Miller Post So. 
270 served as Quartermaster-Sergeant. 



W EVI STITMP. Few, if any, of the residents 
I (^ ^^ Stark County have been citizens thereof 
/''--^ for a longer period of time than he of 
whom we give this biographical sketch. For 
many vears lie resided liere as an interested 



398 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



witness of tbe advancement and growth of the 
count_y, which has been transformed by the ener- 
getic pioneers and their descendants so as to bear 
not the slightest resemblance to the original dreary 
and unoccupied tract of land. 

Mr. Stump was born April 29, 182.5, to Fred- 
erick and Margaret Stump, who were ranked 
among the old settlers of Stark Count}-, this State. 
On the organization of Stark County, in 1809, the 
territory on which Mr. Stump then resided was 
included in Canton Township, where it remained 
until 1814, when Mr. Stump, Sr., aided in organiz- 
ing the new township of Perry. The subject of this 
sketch, like Hamlet, might well claim that he was 
a native and "to the manor born," a distinction of 
which he might well be proud; he was one of a fam- 
ily' of eleven children, all of whom were natives of 
the same township, except the eldest, Daniel Stump, 
who is now deceased, and who resided at Columbus, 
Franklin County. During his residence in Stark 
County, the latter was a merchant and Justice of the 
Peace in Bethlehem Township. The family' of Fred- 
erick Stump, besides Daniel, were Catherine, who 
was married to Samuel Smith, of Canton Town- 
ship, a widow; Eve, who was married to Barnabas 
Allman, of the adjoining township of Bethlehem, 
now also a widow; Frederick, a minister of the 
Reformed Church, now deceased; Adam, also a 
minister of the same church, and also deceased; 
Elizabeth, who married Adam H. Baughman, is a 
widow, residing in Peri'y Township, Stark County; 
Louis, also deceased; William, who was a minister 
of the Reformed Church, now deceased; and one 
other son, who died in infancy. 

A brief sketch of the elder Mr. Stump will not 
be deemed out of place here, as he was one of the 
sturdy pioneers, the recollections of whom furnish 
the straggling beams of history that serve "to 
point the moral and adorn tlie tale" of Perrj' 
Township's earlj"^ organization. He was born on 
the 7th of .June, 1781, in Bethel Township, Berks 
County, Pa., in the stormy period of the Revolu- 
tion, and, with his parents, when quite young, re- 
moved West to Letterkeney Township, in Frank- 
lin County, and married there in 1806. After his 
marriage, he came to Stark County, prospecting for 
a home site. When he arrived at what he regarded as 



a proper stopping-jjlace in the unbroken forest, on 
the borders of civilization, there being a laud olHce 
at Steubenville, in .Jefferson County, he entered at 
that office the southeast quarter of section 28,in the 
9th range, in 1806, three years before the county 
was organized, and eight years previous to the or- 
ganization of the township, on which quarter-sec- 
tion Dr. James Leeper now resides; the southeast 
quarter of section 27, in the same range, he pur- 
chased of James F. Leonard, who had obtained it 
by entry at the land office. At that time there 
was but one cabin where is now the populous and 
growing city of Canton, and that was known as 
Crusou's Tavern. On the 28th of April, 1808, he 
brought his family into the township. Then there 
were but few houses in Canton, and but three 
white families resident upon the territory now em- 
braced within the township lines. Indians were 
abundant, but peaceable. He paid $18 for the 
first barrel of flour, and %22 for the first barrel of 
salt, he used in the family, both of which were 
brought up the Muskingum and Tuscarawas Rivers 
in canoes. Pittsburgh and Steubenville were the 
nearest market places for trade and milling, and 
Mr. Stump thought it a privilege when, fifteen 
years later, a market was opened at Cleveland, and 
he could, with a four-horse load of wheat, obtain a 
side of sole leather and a barrel of salt to "even 
up." For weeks he and his family lived on pota- 
toes, relying on the "shadowy future" as an ear- 
nest of better times. 

Politically, Frederick Stump was a Democrat. 
By a comparison of dates, it will be seen that 
his political character was formed during the 
bitter contest that at last resulted in the election 
of Jefferson over Burr, bj' the United States House 
of Representatives in 1801, and he became a voter 
in the second year of Jefferson's administration. 
The political principles he then espoused, he clung 
to during his entire life. It may well be said of 
him: "He was a Democrat of Democrats, brought 
up at the feet of the political Gamaliel of that era, 
who [)roclaimed that all men were created equal, 
and endowed by their Creator with certain inaliena- 
ble rights, among which are life, liberty, and the 
pursuit of happiness." His religious ideas were in 
uiiitv with the Reformed Church, of wliich he be- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



399 



came a ineniber iu early life, and continued until 
his death; he was life-long prominent in the 
affairs of the township, and it may well be said of 
him, he aided essentially in causing "the wilder- 
ness to blossom as the rose." 

Levi, the son, subject of this sketch, was married 
to Miss JMargaret Housh, also a native of Perry 
Township, on the 19th of March, 1847. Slie was 
the daughter of Frederick and Anna Maria (Ila- 
llegh) Roush, natives of Dauphin County, Pa., 
who emigrated to Perry Township in the year 
1828. They were of the sturdy Pennsylvania- 
Dutch element, to which t!ie whole county of 
Stark is so much indebted for its prosperity. Mr. 
and Mrs. Levi Stump became the parents of thir- 
teen children: Victoria O.; Gassendi married to 
Hannah Gerber; Frederick W., a minister of the 
Reformed Church; Anna M., married to Charles 
Kocher; Ada A.; Levi B., married to Melissa Ilil- 
dreth; Margaret I., James O., Ira E., Samuel O. 
(deceased), Rosa C, Margie V. and Benjamin F. 
Squire Stump, in his political tendencies was a Dem- 
ocrat, but not an "ultra-Democrat." In religion, 
he was a member of the Reformed Church. "These 
things he had kept from his youth up." He served 
the township as Justice of the Peace, for twenty 
j'ears has held the office of Notary Public; and as 
a draftsman of deeds, mortgages, etc., he served his 
neigiibors on all occasions when called upon. He 
was, however, at the head of his profession as a 
farmer, horticulturist and pomologist, being the 
tir.-it in Ven-y Township to make small fruits a 
specially, and in this he was eminently successful. 
He served as Vice-president and Director of the 
Stark County Agricultural Society for sixteen 
years, and at his death was President of the 
County Horticultural Society. His life of indus- 
try and careful study of liis profession, together 
with prudent economy, brought him a compe- 
tence which enat)led him to live in elegant style, 
and as a gentleman farmer took rank among 
Stark Count_y's best. 

Mr. Stumi) at his death left an estate of one hun- 
dred and sixtv-seven acres of land, whicli is well- 
improved with first-class buildings of every de- 
scription and all the appliances for carrying on a 
lirst-class estate. He departed this life May 19, 



1883, and was greatly mourned by a host of warm 
friends. He was a prominent member of the Re- 
formed Church, in which denomination he filled 
the position of Deacon and Elder. He was very 
liberal in his contributions toward its support, and 
took an active part in all good works. Mrs. Stump 
is also a member of the Reformed Church, and 
spends her time in doing good to others. She 
shows a splendid judgment in the control and man- 
agement of her propert}', and while possessing rare 
executive ability, also has those pleasant social 
qualities which give her a high place in societ3^ 



^^o. 



/p!>..EORGE W. TRUMP, a retired farmer, resid- 
{(( (=^ ing at No. 89 East Third Street, Canton, 
%3) was born on the 8th of October, 1846, in 
Stark County, and is a son of George J. and 
Rachel (Weaver) Trump, who were also natives of 
this county. The grandfather, John Trump, was 
born in Pennsylvania, and became a pioneer of 
this community in 1806. The following year, 
George J. was born, January 4, 1807. In 1829, 
he married Rachel Weaver, who was born March 
20, 1810, and was the youngest of four sons and 
six daughters. Her parents, Valentine and Eliza- 
beth Weaver, were both born near Hagerstown, 
Md., and at a very early date they started in 
wagons for Ohio, camping out along the wa^'side 
at night. They endured all the hardships and 
privations incident to the settling up of a new 
country, and the Indians were their neighbors. 
They easily secured deer and honej', which they 
exchanged for powder and lead in those early- 
days. The parents of Mrs. Trump were interred 
in a private burial-ground on the old farm. In 
her girlhood days, the mother of our subject 
learned to spin, weave and sew and do general 
housework and also attended the district schools. 
After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Trump located 
on a farm near Canton, two and one-half miles 
east of the citv, where the former carried on general 



400 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



farming. lie also operated a sawmill and furnished 
ties for the Pittsburgh it Ft. Wayne Railroad Com- 
pany, in the years 1851-52. 

Unto this worthy couple were born thirteen 
children, six of whom are living: Sarah, wife of 
M. Gilihs, of Findlay, Ohio; Lydia, wife of Dan 
Smith, of Canton Township; Laviua, wife of John 
M. Harnett, of Canton Townsliip; Isaac, who lives in 
Polo, 111.; William, who lives in Medina County, 
and George W., our subject. The father of this 
family died February 5, 1881. He was a man of 
excellent business ability, clear-headed and judi- 
cious, and accumulated a handsome estate. He re- 
sided in Canton from 1853 until he died. The 
mother is still living. She is well known in this 
community- and is a most estimable lady. 

George W. Trump, whose name heads this sketch, 
spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon his 
father's farm and was educated in the district 
schools and in Canton. On attaining his majority, 
he began farming on his own account on land 
which is now partially within the cit}' limits. 
This farm is still his property and is now rented. 
It is a valuable tract, underlaid with a stratum of 
fire claj', limestone and coal and fiu'nishing excel- 
lent material for brick-making. He continued to 
engage iu the cultivation and improvement of 
his land for many years, and being a practical and 
progressive farmer was quite successful. 

May 19, 1870, Mr. Trump was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Susan Myers, the youngest daugh- 
ter of Isaac and Helena (Miller) Myers, who were 
among the early settlers of Stark County, remov- 
ing from Pennsylvania to Ohio. Her parents are 
both deceased. Four children were born unto 
our subject and his wife, but all died under the age 
of ten years. Their names were respect] vely Emma 
Rachel, Carrie I>elle, Lewis, and an infant unnamed; 
the three eldest children died within two months of 
diphtheria. This worthy couple continued to reside 
upon the farm until 1891, when they removed to 
their present place of residence. In politics, Mr. 
Truinp is a stalwart Republican, doing all in his 
power to promote the interests and insure the 
success of his party. He served as a member of 
the City Council from the Fourth Ward. He is a 
pulilic-spiiited and progressive man and has the 



best interests of the community at heart. His life 
has been veiy successful and he now owns consid- 
erable property within -the city limits and farm- 
in? lauds. 



ARTIN LABBE is the owner of an excel- 
lent little farm of eight^'-eight acres on 
section 13, Lawrence Townshi)), but not- 
withstanding its somewhat limited dimen- 
sions it is so admirably tilled that it yields a larger 
income than many more extensive farms. He has 
spared no expense in draining and improving his 
place and has erected substantial and commodious 
buildings. A native of Germany, born October 7, 
1830, he possesses all the characteristics of that 
race of people: prudence, foresight, honest}^ and 
industry. His father, Wendlin Labbe, a Ger- 
man, was a shoemaker by trade and successfully 
followed that calling until he attained his seventy- 
third year. He was married to Margaret Balsar, 
who died at the age of seventy years. Their mar- 
riage resulted in the birth of six sons and four 
daughters, all of whom grew to mature years, mar- 
ried and reared families. Only six of the family 
are now living, two of whom still reside in Germany 
and the others in the United States. 

Martin Labbe was the second child born to his 
parents, and at the age of twenty-two years crossed 
the Atlantic ocean to America in searcli of a for- 
tune. After six weeks spent in New York City, 
he came to Stark County, Ohio, and at once began 
following the trade of shoemaking, which he had 
learned in his native land, and was thus soon en- 
abled to pay off the debt which he had contracted 
by coming to America. During the first three 
years of his residence in this country, he worked 
for others, at the end of which time he came to the 
conclusion that more money could be made by 
working in an establishment of his own, and with 
this end in view he opened a shop, which he con- 
ducted with success for about thirty years in Canal 
Fulton. In 1882, lie purcliased the farm on which 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



401 



he is at present residing, and up to the present 
time has followed agricultural pursuits with unflag- 
ging energy and industry. He does a general farm- 
ing and stock-raising business and this calling has 
proven verj' congenial to his tastes. 

He has been married twice, the iirst time in .Jan- 
uary, 1856, to Miss Caroline Burl<myer, who was a 
native of Switzerland, but came to Stark County, 
Ohio, at the age of fifteen 3'ears. She was called 
from life in 1868, having become the mother of 
seven children, three of whom survive: Catherine, 
Emma and William. Mr. Labbe's second marriage 
was to Miss Mary Eva Gill, also a native of the 
"Fatlierland." Although thej' have no children of 
their own, Mrs. Labbe is devoted to herstep-chii- 
(h'en. their interests and welfare being paramount 
with her. She is an estimable woman in every re- 
spect, and she and Mr. Labbe have a large circle of 
friends. Mr. Labbe has always espoused the prin- 
ciples of Democracy and his vote is cast for the 
men and measures of that party. He and his family 
are worthy members of the Catholic Church of 
Canal Fulton and are liberal in the use of their 
means in its support. 



I 



^^^|i^I..I^i|^#^ 



\^Sv, K. BOWMAN, proprietor of a saw and 
I /// Pl^^ii'i^o '"''ll '^^'^^ lumlier yard at North 
l^iiLLi, Lawrence, Oliio, has a representative estab- 
lishment, and his stock will bear favorable compari- 
son with any similar house in the trade. During the 
time that he has been in business here, he has be- 
come known and appreciated as a man who devoted 
his entire time and energies to the task of faithfully 
conducting his business on correct principles, and 
his [latronage is therefore large. 

Mr. Bowman was born in Stark County, Oiiio, Oc- 
tober 6, 1856, his parents being Samuel S. and Mar- 
garet Ann (Kibler) Bowman, the former of whom 
was born in Pennsylvania, and when a child was 
brought by his parents to Stark County, Ohio, 
where lie married and began following the trade of 
a carpenter. Being a skilkul workman, his labors 



were prospered and he eventually found himself 
in fair circumstances. The paternal grandfather, 
Adam Bowman, was a German, who came to 
the United States when a J'oung man and settled 
in Pennsylvania. He was married on the steamer 
that brought him to this country and about 18.30 
settled with his family in the Bucke_ye State, in 
time becoming a well-to-do farmer of Stark County. 
The maternal grandfather, Jacob Kililer, was born 
in Virginia. 

N. K. Bowman was the eldest of tliirteen children 
born to his parents, twelve of whom are now liv- 
ing. His boyhood days were spent in a rather 
monotonous way, but in the meantime he succeeded 
in imbibing a thorough knowledge of the common 
branches and at the age of nineteen years he en- 
tered upon the duties of a school teacher, which 
occupation he followed during the winter months 
for about ten years. During the summer, his at- 
tention was given to carpentering, and by follow- 
ing these occupations he succeeded in accumu- 
lating sufficient means to enable him to engage in 
his present business in 1887. 

Our subject carries a large stock of lumber 
and is extensively' engaged in the manufacture of 
windows, doors, sashes, etc., and keeps in constant 
employment about fifteen men who thoroughly 
understand their duties. In connection with this 
business his attention is given to building and con- 
tracting, and he has shown himself perfectly cap- 
able of handling every department of his work 
successfully. He manufactures "Becker's Patent" 
washing-machine, as well as pickets for fences, and 
keeps constantly on hand a large stock of lime, 
cement, etc. He carries a large and varied stock, 
and receives a most liberal share of public favor. 
Public-spirited, liberal-minded and generous in 
disposition, and active, intelligent, energetic bj' 
nature, tiis career has been successful and honorable 
and promises to continue so. He is in every re- 
spect the architect of his own fortune, for he began 
his business career without means or influence and 
is now in independent circumstances. 

In February, 1883, he was married to Miss Cath- 
erine Lawrence, a native of AVayne County ,01uo but 
reared in Stark County. They are the parents of 
three daughters and tvvo sons: Charles L.; Una C; 



402 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Mabel; Leroy D., and Edna M. Mr. Bowman is a 
member of the order of Adelphia and President of 
tlie same. Pie is a member of the United Brethren 
Cliurch and gives freely of his means to its support. 
June 23, 1889 his establishment burned down with- 
out any insurance, but he at once rebuilt. He has 
a fifty horse power engine. He has now taken in as 
partner, D. F. Mock and is building an additional 
establisliment for the manufacture of barrel- 
hoops, handles and a general variety of turning 
works and buggy and wagon spokes. 



<^ DAM KODOCKER. This highly-esteemed 
^/ r I'ioncer and well-known citizen of Stark 

/// li County, residing in Tuscarawas Town- 
^IJ ship, has throughout his entire life been 
prominentl3- connected with the best interests of 
the county. A witness of the progress made 
since the days when dense forests occupied the site 
of now flourishing cities, and rolling prairies dis- 
played, so far as c^'e could discern, no trace of 
human inhabitants, it has been his pleasure to 
watch the changes made by the passing yeai'S. and 
contribute, as far as possible, to eflfect the wonderful 
transformation. 

Born Ma3' 31, 1821. our subject is the son of 
Frederick and Barbara (Oberlin) Rodocker, natives 
respectively of Cumberland and Lancaster Coun- 
ties, Pa. His ancestors on both sides were of Ger- 
man origin, and were represented in this countr3' at 
an early daj'. Adam Oberlin, his maternal grand- 
father, is said to have been a soldier in the Revolu- 
tionary War and a valiant defender of his coun- 
try. About 1805, the father of our subject re- 
moved from the Keystone State to Ohio, where he 
resided for two j-ears in Columbiana County, and 
tlience came to Stark County. He settled north of 
Canton, in the midst of the woods, and remote from 
any other settlers. The usual hardships attending 
l)ioneer life fell to his lot, but with great courage 
he surmounted every obstacle and became the 



owner of a well-improved farm. In his death, 
which occurred in 1849. the county lost one of its 
most enterprising citizens. 

The parental family consisted of eight children, 
only two of wliom survive, Adam, and Sarali, the 
widow of Philip Bowers. The mother of these 
children died in 1849, four days after the decease 
of her husband. Adam Rodocker was reared to 
manhood in Stark Countj' and has always resided 
in Tuscarawas Town.ship. His education was 
gaijied in the log schoolhouse near his home, but 
was limited to a few studies, and his knowledge has 
been mainly self-acquired. 

The first marriage of our subject was with Cath- 
erine Zartman, and thev became the parents of a 
large family of children, of whom the following 
survive: Angelinc, wife of Theodore Culler; Sam- 
uel, Henry; Melissa, who married .Jackson Reese; 
William; Melinda, wife of Orlando McFerriu; 
Peter, Fernando and Clement. August 17, 1882, 
Mr. Rodocker was married to Mrs. Melinda Miller, 
an estimable lady who was born in Virginia, the 
daughter of Daniel and Anna Fultz. 

Politically. Mr. Rodocker is a stanch adherent 
of the principles of Democracy. In educational 
matters, he is especially interested, and lias served 
with efficiency as School Director. He is a member 
of the Perry Grange at Massillon,and well known 
for honesty and integrity in business circles. The 
Lutheran Church counts him as one of its most 
active memhers, and he is always relied ujion to 
contribute his influence and means toward the ad- 
vancement of religious enterprises. 



Wk^l 



'ifJOHN W. IIARTZELL. C.inton is the liome 
of a large number of enterprising business 
men, whose sturdy ambition and keen fore- 
sight have been the means of promoting 
the material welfare of the city. Tlieir labors have 
resulted in the advancement of the place, until it 
now ranks among the best cities of the State, a city 
of wealtli and commercial standing, no less than 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



403 



educational and religious prominence. A list of 
the prominent men must necessarily include the 
name of Mr. Hartzell, who, althougli still a young 
man, has attained to success in his cliosen pro- 
fession. 

Born in Adams County, Pa., December 4, 1852, 
our subject is the son of Henry and Mary L. 
(Johns) Hartzell, natives of the county in which 
his eyes first opened to the light. In the spring 
of 1853, they removed to Ohio and located in 
Stark Couuty, where the father carried on the trade 
of plasterer and brick mason, his farm being six 
miles south of Canton. The mother passed from 
earth in 1875, and his father closed his eyes to the 
scenes of time in 1892. They were worthy and 
upright and their childien hold their memory in 
reverence. 

The parental family consisted of five sons and 
one daughter, as follows: John W., Charles II., 
James D., Elden E., Franklin, and Frances K., 
wife of Joseph Ilowerstock, of Stark County. The 
one in whom we are particularly interested was 
about six months old when he came to Stark County 
with his parents, and his education was received in 
the country schools. He learned the trade of plas- 
terer and brick mason with his father, in whoso 
employ he worked until eighteen years old. Later, 
he worked for parties in Ft. Wayne, Ind.. and 
other places. Since 1880, he has been doing con- 
tracting on his own account, and has his residence 
and shop at No. 276 Navarre Street, in Canton. In 
tlie erection of many of the finest buildings of the 
city, he has been interested, and among others took 
the contracts on the Dannemiller Block, the Lib- 
erty Schoolhouse, the residences of J. Eberhardt 
and C. Sherrick, the Odd Fellows' building, and 
numerous other structures. His position is one of 
prominence among other contractors of the city 
and county, and he has g.iined an enviable repu- 
tation as a reliable workman. 

The pleasant home in which Mr. Hartzell resides, 
and which he purchased by means of his unaided 
efforts, is presided over by his amiable wife, to 
whom he was married in 1876. She was Miss Ida 
M., daughter of Christian Sherrick, and is a lady 
whose many noble attributes of character have 
won for her the regard of all her acquaintances. 



Three children have blessed the union: Nora L., 
William A., and Clarence S. Mr. and Mrs. Hart- 
zell are prominent members of the Wesleyan 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and contribute gen- 
erously of tlieir time and means to the aid of all 
worthy projects. Politically, he is a Prohibi- 
tionist. 



l^M^m 



IP^^- 



OUIS A. LOICHOT holds the office of Audi- 
tor of Stark County, having filled the 
position since September, 1890. He was 
born in the village of Harrisburgh,in this county 
on the 12th of March, 1861, and was the second 
of four sons whose parents were Louis and Cath- 
erine (Simon) Loichot. His father was a native 
of France and his mother was born in Switzerland. 
When young people, they emigrated to the United 
States, and coming to Ohio, were married in Stark 
County, in 1857. After their marriage, they re- 
moved to Minnesota, where they remained for sev- 
eral years, and then took up their residence in the 
village of Ilarrisburgh. At this time, Mr. Loichot was 
Postmaster of Ilarrisburgh, holding tliat position 
for several 3'ears, and was Assessor of Canton for 
some time. He proved faithful to his duty, as his 
retention in office well indicates. 

We now take up the personal history of our sub- 
ject, who was reared to manhood under the paren- 
tal roof and began his education in the common 
schools. He afterward entered the graded schools 
of Toledo, where he pursued his studies for three 
years, and subsequently returning to Canton, he 
entered the school of this city. Later, he entered 
Saunders' Business College and his education in 
the school room was there com|)leted, but by sub- 
sequent reading, experience and observation, he 
has added largely to his fund of knowledge and is 
a well-informed man, conversant with all of the 
leading questions of the da}'. 

On leaving school, Mr. Loichot engaged in 
clerking in a dry-goods store for one 3'ear, after 
which he entered the employ of the Isaac Harter 



404 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL RECORD. 



(fe Son's Bank as Collector and Teller, remaining 
with that institution for a period of thirteen years 
as one of its trusted employes. In 1889, he was 
elected County Auditor, and in September, 1890, 
entered upon the duties of that office, which he 
discharges in a manner reflecting credit upon him- 
self and to the satisfaction of his constituents. 
In politics, he is a stalwart Democrat, having sup- 
ported that party since he attained his majority. 
He resides at No. 338 North Cleveland Avenue, 
where he has a handsome frame dwelling with all 
the modern improvements. Mr. Loichot is a wide- 
awake and enterprising young man, public-spirited 
and progressive and a valued citizen of the com- 
munity. 



'if/OHN WIIITJMYRE. For many years, or 
since his location in this county, the repu- 
tation which Mr. Whitmyre lias has been not 
only that of a substantial and progressive 
farmer, but of an honorable and upright citizen. 
He was originally from the Keystone State, born 
in Cumberland County, near Newville, on the 
23d of February, 1811. 

Our subject's father, Philii) Whitmyre, was also 
a native of Pennsj'lvania and was born near the 
Susquehanna River. The grandfather, Michael 
Whitmyre, it is supposed was a native of Germany. 
Philip Whitmyre readied mature years in liis na- 
tive State and was married, in Cumberland County, 
to Miss Elizabeth Bowers, a native of Pennsylva- 
nia, where she was reared. After marriage, Mr. 
and Mrs. Whitm_yre located near Shippensburgh 
and there he followed the miller's trade for twenty- 
one j-ears. He brought his family- to Stark County 
about 1825. at a time when the country was wild 
and unsettled, and located in Lawrence Township 
on the farm where our subject now resides and 
bought one hundred and sixtj' acres, paying about 
$900 for the tract. There were a few improvements 
made on this, about five acres being cleared, and 



Mr. Whitmyre began at once to improve and de- 
velop the remainder. About 1852, he removed to 
Canal Fulton and there his death occurred-about 
1872. He was a man of industry and enterprise 
and one of the pioneers of Stark County. IIis 
estimable wife died about 1862. They were the 
parents of three children, two daughters and a son, 
all of whom grew up, married and became the 
heads of families. 

John Whitmyre, the eldest of these children, was 
about fifteen years of age when he came with his 
parents to Stark County, and the education begun 
in his native State was finished in Manchester, Sum- 
mit Countj', Ohio, wiiere he remained two years. 
After this, lie assisted his father in clearing the 
farm of the heavy timber with which it was cov- 
ered, and being the eldest child, he took charge of 
the farm and business at the age of twenty-eight 
years. He has remained on the farm ever since, 
and has displayed unusual ability in the manage- 
ment of the same. With care and perseverance 
he has attended to his adopted calling, and with 
energy and thoroughness his successful results 
have been reaped, until now, past the age usually 
allotted to man, he is in possession of a competence 
fully sufficient to warrant him in passing the re- 
mainder of his days in peace and comfort. He was 
married, in 1839, to Sliss Catherine Luts, a native 
of Jackson Township, Stark County, and he brought 
his bride to the old homestead. 

The following children were born to this un- 
ion: Simon, of Jackson Township, this county; 
Polly, deceased; Jacob, who resides with 
our subject; William, in Jackson Township, 
this county; Charles and George, of Ca- 
nal Fulton; Sarah, at home, and Rufus, of Newton 
County, Ind. Our subject has resided on the old 
homestead ever since his residence in the county and 
has increased the original one hundred and sixt}' 
acres to one hundred and ninety. He now owns 
eighty acres in Jackson Township, twenty-four in 
the corporation of Canal Fulton, twenty on sec- 
tion 13, Lawrence Township, and thirteen acres on 
section 1, Lawrence Township, thus making three 
hundred and twenty-seven acres of good land with 
improvements. He is still engaged in agricultural 
pursuits and gives his personal attention to his large 



'Mf^ 




fe 






f^rc^^ 




#^: 



'^^^ 





"^^^ (JcaaA^^lm^ 



POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



407 



farm. In politics, he is a stanch Democrat and his 
vote lias ever been cast with that party. Honor- 
able and straightforward in every walic of life, he 
has the respect and esteem of all acquainted with 
him. 



EWI.S SLQSSER, M. D., a retired physician 
residing in Canton, was born on a farm 
which is now within the corporation limits 
of this city, January 21, 1820, and is a representa- 
tive of one of the oldest families of Stark County. 
His grandfather, Philip Schlosser (for so he spelled 
iiis name) came to the county in 1805, with his 
family of five sons and five daughters, all of whom 
are now deceased. Philip Schlosser was the first 
County Commissioner of Stark County, and held 
the ofllce several years before the county was or- 
ganized. Indians were then quite numerous in the 
neighborhood, but the white settlers were few, and 
Canton consisted of about a half- lozen log cabins, 
I)ut only two were then occupied. He built the 
first gristmill in the count}', on the site which was 
occupied by the East Canton Mill, which he oper- 
ated for some time. 

A sawmill erected the previous year by Philip 
Schlosser was operated by his son, John Slusser, 
the father of our subject, who was then only six- 
teen years old. The entire responsibility rested 
upon him. He not only had to attend to the wants 
of the customers, but had to keep the mill in repair, 
and occasionally assisted the millwright when 
working on the gristmill. He was born in Cum- 
berland County, Pa., September 9, 171)0. While 
engaged in milling, he also acquired considerable 
skill in the use of wood tools, and as there was no 
cabinet-maker in the neighborhood, would often 
make dough trays, tables and cupboards for the emi- 
grants, and thus drifted intocabiuet-making. In the 
War of 1812, he enlisted, at the age of twenty-two 
years, but during the service was taken seriously ill. 
However, he served out his full term of enlistment. 
Mr. Slusser married Nancy, daughter of Philip 
Dewalt, who came from Center County, Pa., to 

20 



Canton, Ohio, in 1808. After their marriage, they 
located on a tract of land which is now within the 
city limits and which was given Mr. Slusser by his 
father. He built a frame dwelling and a shop, and 
in connection with farming followed cabinet-mak- 
ing for a number of j'ears. In 182.5, he exchanged 
his property for the two-story brick residence of 
John Webb in Canton, and soon afterward turned 
his attention to merchandising. He rode on horse- 
back to Philadelphia to purchase a stock of goods. 
He was successful and accumulated considerable 
capital,which he invested largely in Western lands. 
In 1842, his first wife died leaving seven children. 
The following 3'ear, Mr. Slusser married Mrs. Cath- 
erine Whitman, who died in 1879. He passed away 
in 1859, honored and respected by all. He had 
held a number of the township offices of trust and 
was a member of the Methodist Church. Promi- 
nent and iufiuential, he was a leading citizen and 
was held in the highest esteem. 

Dr. Slusser is the second son and third child in 
the family of seven children, five of whom grew 
to mature years. His boyhood da3's were spent in 
Canton, where he attended the public schools for 
a time. He afterward entered Jefferson College 
in Cannonsburgh, Pa., where he pursued his studies 
for three and a half years, when on account of 
failing health he returned home He then went 
South to Georgia, and after having recovered 
taught school in that State for about five years. 
In the meantime, he began the study of medicine 
with Dr. Ramsey, of Wilkes Countj% Ga., and after 
three years took a course of lectures in the Na- 
tional Medical College. of Washington, D. C, after 
which he returned to Canton, and engaged in prac- 
tice for two years under instructors. He then en- 
tered the Ohio Medical College, of Cincinnati, from 
which he was graduated in the spring of 1848. Dr. 
Slusser began practice in 1849 in Canal Pulton, 
where he remained until the breaking out of the 
War in 1861. In 1858, he was elected a member 
of the State Legislature and served two terms, dur- 
ing which time he was Chairman of the Committee 
on Benevolent Institutions, which inspected the 
Blind, Deaf and Dumb and Imbecile As3'lums,also 
the Reform School. When a member of the As- 
semlily, he was instrumental in securing the p.ass.age 



408 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of the bill providing for the appointment of a med- 
icnl board of examiners to pass upon the fitness of 
surgeons for the army. 

In 1861 the Doctor entered the service, being 
appointed Surgeon of the Sixth-ninth Ohio Infan- 
try. He was afterward made Medical Director of 
the brigade and subsequently of the division. 
During his service he was joined by liis wife, who 
gave him efficient aid until her health failed her. 
She did not rally and [lassed away in Nashville, 
Tenu., in 1863 

After his regiment was mustered out, Dr. Slusser 
accepted a commission in the Fourth Army Corps 
as Surgeon of the Twenty-sixtii Ohio Infantry, 
then rendezvousing in New Orleans. He was after- 
ward sent to the Mexican border, where he remained 
until November, 1865, when, with his command, lie 
received his discharge and returned home. Locat- 
ing in his native city, he resumed general practice, 
which he continued until 1873, when he was elected 
Medical Superintendent of the Cleveland Insane 
As3ium, which position he resigned in 1876, and 
again entered upon the practice in Canton. To his 
profession he tlien devoted his energies until 1889, 
when a paralytic stroke disabled him for work for 
some time. He now devotes his time to writing, 
and is collecting reminiscences of Stark Count}- 
history which he purposes publishing some time in 
the future. No one is more capable of doing this 
work, for he has resided here for seventy-two years 
and is a representative of one of the oldest families 
of the count}-. 

Dr. Slusser was twice married, his first union be- 
ing with Miss Sarah, daughter of Dr. Joseph Pierce. 
Her death occurred in 1863, as before stated. He 
afterward married Helena Ricks, a sister of Judge 
A. J. Ricks, of the L'nited Slates District Court and 
a native of Pittsburgh, Pa. Unto them have been 
born five children, but two daughters only are now 
living: Georgia, at home, and Lucile, who is at- 
tending school in Norwalk, Conn. 

The Doctor's life has been a successful one as 
viewed from financial and other standpoints, and 
he owns several pieces of good property in Canton. 
He helped organize the Old Settlers' Association of 
Slark County, and has served several years as its 
Secretary, which office he is holding at this writing. 



He is also a member of the Pennsylvania Society. 
In politics, he has been a lifelong Democrat. Few 
men are more widely known in Stark County than 
our subject and none more favorabl}' so. He is 
spoken of in the highest terms b}' all; old and 
young, rich and poor alike esteem him for his 
many excellencies of character. 



!>-*<! 



J' / OIIN A. ROACH, M. D. The profession of 
I a i)hysician carries with it the highest re- 
I sponsibilities, and exacts of its followers 
^^' the most laborious study and earnest re- 
search, if the}- would keep step with the rapid 
strides that are being made in all its varied de- 
partments. Amid "the pestilence that walketh by 
noonday" they are called to go, and the brightest 
and most illustrious examples of courage have 
been recorded of their faitliful performance of 
duty. 

Among the physicians who are diligently pur- 
suing their chosen profession and making a name 
for themselves among the foremost men of their 
calling, prominent mention belongs to Dr. Roach, 
of Alliance, who, although only in the prime of 
life, has already become widely and favorably 
known for skill in his profession. His father, J. B. 
Roach, JI. D., has for thirty-two years been a prac- 
titioner and is still actively engaged in professional 
labors at Alliance, where he is numbered among 
the leading physicians and surgeons, as web as one 
of the enterprising citizens and upright men of 
the city. 

The son of Dr. J. B. and Delila (Ashbrook) 
Roach, our subject was born in Augusta, Carroll 
County, Ohio, December 5, 1858, and was reared to 
manhood in the place of his birth. His literary 
education was obtained in the public schools of 
Carroll County, and at the age of twenty years he 
commenced the study of medicine, which he carried 
on under his father's direct supervision. After 
continuing in that way for some time, he entered 
the Western Reserve Medical College, of Cleveland, 



rORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL RECORD. 



409 



Ohio, from which institution he was graduated in 
1884. Prior to entering the medical college, he 
had engaged in teaching school for five years and 
was thus enabled to pay his own expenses through 
school. 

After graduating, Dr. Roach located for the 
practice of his profession at Sherodsville, Ohio, 
wliere he remained two years and gained a good 
practice in the community. In 1887, realizing 
the need of a wider field for his i)rofessional labors, 
he came to Alliance, where he opened an office and 
has since remained in practice. He is well adapted 
to his chosen profession, and through skill, wide 
knowledge and devotion to his work, he has built 
up an extensive and lucrative practice. 

In 1880, Dr. Roach was married to Miss Maggie 
A. Dunlap, of Salineville, Oliio, and thej- are the 
parents of one cliild, Rhea. They hold member- 
ship in tlie Disciples Cliurch and tiave hosts of 
friends, who, one and all, wish them a continuance 
of happiness and prosperity. The Doctor is identi- 
fied with the Knights of Pythias and is a charter 
member of Sherodsville Lodge. He is identified 
with, and Physician of, the American Mechanics' 
Association, Equitable Aid Union, and the Mutual 
Life Benefit Association of Newark. In addition to 
this, he is Physician for the Mutual Reserve Fund 
Company, of New York; the Fidelity, of Pliiladel- 
phia; an insurance company of Michigan, and the 
Provident Life and Trust Company. 



3***4->^i®'**4-*F 



ILLIAM H. BECIIEK, M. D. The profes- 
sions are worthily represented in Stark 
'^yf\!l County, not only by the numbers, but by 
tlie natural talents, acquired skill and knowledge 
of tliose who are engaged in them. The flourish- 
ing towns and villages are the centers from which 
the influence of the culture aud practical ability 
of doctors, lawyers and ministers radiates over the 
conntrj' and reaches out hands of healing to bod^-, 
mind and souls. Two miles south of North In- 
dustry is located the oftice of Dr. Becher, to whom 



many look for aid when they are ill. He has bfeen 
engaged in active practice in that place for twentj-- 
thiee years and is often called to the city of Can- 
ton to see patients. 

Our subject was born in this county, near Sparta, 
July 17, 1848. His father, Henry Becher, was 
a native of Pennsylvania, as was also the grand- 
father, who was of German descent, represen- 
tatives having come to this country during the 
Colonial daj's. Grandfather Becher emigrated 
to Ohio in early pioneer times and was one of 
the first residents in Tuscarawas County. Later, 
he came to Stark Countj^ and died in the city of 
Canton at the age of eighty years. 

Henry Becher is still living and is engaged as a 
prosperous farmer in Canton Township. He was 
married, in 1840, to Miss Barbara Collins, a native 
of this State, and to them were born thiee children, 
viz.: Hiiam .S., who was engaged in farming and 
teaching school in Medina County, this State; our 
subject, and Simon, who resides with his father in 
Canton Township. The wife and mother departed 
this life December 8, 1890, and, like her husband, 
was a consistent member of the Lutheran Church. 
The father of our subject, prior to the Civil War, 
was Democratic in politics, but at the present time 
votes with the Republican parly. 

William II. Becher of this sketch resided on the 
home farm until ten years of age when, with his 
parents, he removed to Dallas County, Iowa, where 
tiiey remained for three years, and at the expira- 
tion of that time resided for two years in Henry 
Count}', 111. Then returning to his native county, 
our subject attended High School in Canton, and 
when sixteen years of age entered the college at 
Mt. I'nion, where he spent one term. After that, 
he began teaching school in this county and was 
thus engaged in Pike aud Canton Townships for 
five terms. Having determined to follow the pro- 
fession of a doctor, he began reading medicine 
with Doctors Walker and Gans in 1866, and soon 
after entered the University' of Pennsylvania at 
Philadelphia, where he studied assiduously' for 
three years, and in 1869 was graduated from that 
institution. 

After receiving his diploma. Dr. Becher located 
where he is at present residing, and at once began 



410 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



to build up the practice bj' which he is extending 
his reputation, having a greater number of calls 
each j^ear as the residents of the surrounding 
countrj' become better acquainted with him and 
more confident of his knowledge and skill. 

Prior to his graduation, Dr. Becher, April 28, 
1864, was united in marriage with Miss Sabilla 
Apley, who was born in this county in October, 
1845. The two children born of their union bear 
the respective names of Winfield and Webster. 
Mrs. Becher died April 18, 1879 and the lady whom 
the Doctor chose as his second wife was ]\Iiss Olive 
Guest. The lady was born December 28, 1861, in 
Pike Township, and the ceremony whicli made 
them one took place, October 21, 1880. Mrs. 
Beclier possesses a cultured mind, a sympatliizing 
lieart, to which is added the housewifely knowl- 
edge which is necessary for all who would make 
their homes attractive and comfortable. Tlie year 
of his nianiage, the Doctor erected a large frame 
residence wliich is furnished with all modern con- 
veniences and is one of the very finest in the town- 
ship. It is located on quite an elevation, thus 
commanding an admirable view of the surround- 
ing country. Although the Doctor devotes the 
greater portion of his time to his profession, he 
.also has various outside interests, among which is 
a valuable farm of eighty acres, which is located 
one-half mile east of his home and which under- 
careful cultivation is made to produce bountifully 
of the various crops to which tlie soil is adapted. 
On this tract of land is located a coal mine, which 
Dr. Becher has worked for tlie last fifteen years, 
and as the result of liis labors in that direction, has 
been handsomely rewarded. 

Dr. and ]\Irs. Becher in religious belief are mem- 
bers of the United Bretliren Church. Our subject 
began practice with a debt of $70, but by strict at- 
tention to business and careful investments, he is 
now classed among tlie wealtli}' citizens of Pike 
Townsliip. His fine practice gives him so much 
to do, both in its actual labors and in tlie continu- 
ous study which he keeps up, that he does not care 
to hold public office, but during elections votes 
tiie straight Republican ticket. He is quite expert 
with his rifie and for tiie past ten years has been a 
member of the Canton Gun Club and in tliis way 



takes recreation. He is a large stockholder in a 
clay mine located at Sparta, Ohio, which employs 
fifty men in the manufacture of hollow-tiles and 
paving brick. The capital stock is §120,000. 






HIIJP SONNHALTER, ex-Superintendent 
and Treasurer of the Massillon Central 
Coal Company, is one of the most thor- 
ough-going, wide-awake business men of 
the county, and one of its most esteemed and valued 
citizens. Like many of the prominent men of the 
county, he is of foreign birth, born near Saar- 
brucken, Prussia, Germany, on the 8th of January, 
184.3. His father, John Sonnhalter, was a native 
of the same place, and there learned the trade of 
contractor and mason of his father, who had fol- 
lowed tliat all his life. John Sonnhalter was mar- 
ried in his native country to Miss Catherine Lux- 
emburger, who was also a native of Germany. In 
the spring of 1855, he came with his family to 
Arrerica, and located near Akron, Summit County, 
Ohio, where he cultivated the soil until his death. 
The mother died in 1856. Of the five children 
born to them, only three now survive. John 
died in Massillon, being killed while opening 
the Pigeon Run Mine, of which he was Super- 
intendent. Catherine, Mrs. Burgess, resides in Sum- 
mit County; Mary, Mrs. Brandt, resides in Brook- 
field; Philip, our subject. George, who enlisted 
in the Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, in 1864, and 
served until tiie close, died at Brookflcld. 

The boyhood and youth of our subject were 
passed in his native countiy, and he attended the 
common scliools of the same until October, 1855, 
wlien he left Hanover on the vessel "St. Johns," 
and was thirty-three days on the ocean. He landed 
in New York City, but came witii his parents to 
Summit County, where he assisted Iiis father on 
the farm until 1859, and attended the common 
schools during the winter. At the last-mentioned 
date, lie came to West Brookfield, and went to work 



POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



411 



ill the coal mines as a miner, with pick and shovel. 
There he worked until September, 1861, when he 
volunteered in Company H, Thirty-seventh Ohio 
Infantry, and was mustered in at Cleveland. He 
was sent South, and participated in the battle of 
Princeton, after which he was promoted to the 
rank of Corporal. He was afterward in a number 
of skirmishes in West Virginia, and then joined 
Gen. Grant at Napoleon. He was also in the 
battles of Maine's Bluff, Champion Hill, Black River 
and siege of Vicksburg., He was then taken sick 
and sent home on furlough. Six weeks later, he 
returned to his regiment at Bridgeport and was 
sent to relieve Rosecrans. He took a prominent 
part in the battles of Missionary Ridge, Lookout 
Mountain, Atlanta, and others. He was mustered 
out at Larkinsville in the fall of 1864. He was in 
the Georgia campaign, the battles of Resaca, 
Dallas, and all the engagements in which his 
command took part, and was within ten feet 
of McPherson when that general was killed. 
His corps broke the line of the siege of At- 
lanta, and was the first corps at West Point. His 
time of service expiring, he was houorablj' dis- 
charged on the 23d of September, 1864, and came 
home. lie was a faithful and gallant soldier, no 
braver one ever treading the red sod of a battle- 
field. His clothing was riddled with bullets, his 
comrades fell all around him, but he faced to the 
front and was never known to falter. 

After peace was declared, he entered the coal 
mines for the Rhodes Coal Company, and was thus 
engaged for one 3'ear, after which, in 1866, he en- 
gaged in mining for himself in Summit County, 
near Clinton, where he leased two mines. These he 
conducted for four 3-ears, meeting with fair success. 
In 1870, he came to Massillon, was Superintend- 
ent of the Crawford Coal Mines for a yenv, and 
afterward Superintendent of the Rhodes Mine for 
three years. During the year 1879, he organized a 
company and ran a mine for one year, after which 
he sold out, and in 1880 he organized tlie West 
Massillon Coal Company as Manager, and also or- 
ganized another mine near Brookfield. He sold out 
four years later, and organized the Massillon C!en- 
tral Coal Company, of which he was the Superin- 
tendent and Treasurer, .1. G. Warwick, President, 



and W. K. L. Warwick, Secretary. In addition, 
the firm discovered the big field they are are open- 
ing now, and are doing an immense business. Our 
subject has leased his interests in the Upper Pigeon 
Run and Warwick Coal Mines. He resides on West 
Tremont Street, ]Massillon,aiid is prominently iden- 
tified with all enterprises of importance. 

Our subject was married in Massillon on the 
1.5th of November, 1864, to Miss Mary C. Eberly, 
a native of Alsace, France, who came with her 
parents to Stark County, Ohio, when but four 
years of age. Seven children are the fruits of 
this union, as follows: Mary, Mrs. Heiman. of 
Brookfield; Cecelia is now teaching school in 
the county; Annie, at home; Philip J. is attending 
St. Vincent College, Westmoreland County, Pa.; 
Adam F., Gertrude and Ernest H., the last three 
at home. Our subject is a member of Hart Post 
No. 1 34, G. A. R., and in politics he is a strong Dem- 
ocrat. He holds membership in the St. Joseph Cath- 
olic Church, and is a member of the Board of Trus^ 
tees and the Building Committee. 



44^ 



S;iEORGE STOVER. In preparing this brief 
outline of the life of George Stover 
facts appear which are greatly to his credit. 
His intelligence, enterprise and integrity, as well 
as many other estimable qualities, have gathered 
about him numerous friends, and have won for him 
a well-deserved popularity. He was born on the 
farm where he now resides on the 13th of Decem- 
ber, 1838, a son of Samuel Stover, who was origin- 
ally from the Keystone State, born in Centre, on 
the 16th of August, 1813. The father continued 
to make his home in Pennsylvania until about ten 
years of age, when he came with his parents, 
George and Catherine (Danncr) Stover, to Stark 
Count}', Ohio. They located where our subject 
now resides, on a wild tract of land with no im- 
provements, and there the grand[)arents received 
their final summons, the grandfather dying in 
1867, and the grandmother in Februarv, 1875. 



412 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD^ 



Samuel Stover became familiar with the arduous 
duties of the farm at an early date, and was mar- 
ried in Greentowu, Stark County, Ohio, to Miss 
Margaret Krichbaum, who was a native of that 
county. After this union, thej' located in Law- 
rence Township, this county, on section 1, but after 
a short residence there, moved to the farm where 
our subject now lives, and cultivated the soil there 
until 1841. From there they moved to Green- 
town, located on a farm, and there the mother died 
on the 6th of August, 1841. Afterward, the father 
returned to Lawrence Township, and tliere died 
on the 19tli of October, 1888. Both were worthy 
members of the Lutheran Church. Onl^' two sons 
were given them, William, who resides on section 
11, Lawrence Township, and our subject. 

The original of this notice was reared in his na- 
tive place, and his first scholastic training was in 
the district schools of Lawrence Township and when 
he attended at Canal Fulton two winter terms. For 
five terms following this, he was in Oberlin College, 
Lorain County, Ohio, and then returned to the farm. 
lie taught for three winters in the district schools of 
his count3' and one term in Summit Countj', dur- 
ing this time making his home with his grandparents 
on his present farm. During the summer months 
he was actively engaged in agricultural pursuits. 
He was not married until thirty ^ears of age, and 
he then selected his life companion in the person 
of Miss Louisa J. Beardsley, their nuptials being 
celebrated on the 20tii of January, 1869. She was 
born near Akron, Summit County, Ohio, January 
29, 1842, to the union of Talman and Tempeianee 
(Spicer) Beardsley. 

Following his marriage, Mr. Stover located on 
his present farm, and there the births of his four 
children occurred, three sons and one daughter, as 
follows: William B. (deceased); George P., at 
liomc, attending school; Ilarrj- W., also attending 
school; and Clara B., deceased. Our subject is the 
owner of one hundred and sixty acres in the old 
homestead and Mty acres on section 11, all under 
cultivation, and is engaged in general farming and 
stock-raising. He is thoroughly familiar with 
every detail of this occupation, and has been unu- 
sually successful. He is a Democrat in politics, but 
held the position of Trustee for two terms in a 



Republican township. For seven j'ears he was 
Trustee of the Fairmont Children's Home of Stark 
and Columbiana Counties, and was a member of 
the School Board of his district for a number of 
years. Socially, he is connected with the Masonic 
fraternit}', Elliott Lodge No. 514, of Canal Fulton, 
and was a member of the Grange at that place for 
nineteen vears. 






\fi OHN F. ROTH, who is one of the foremost 
farmers and stock-raisers of Northeastern 
Ohio, having large landed interests in Can 
IJ^!/' ton Township, is classed among those men 
of force, intelligence and ability', who have been 
instrumental in developing the county into a rich 
agricultural center. Me represents one of the 
early pioneer families, and tiiough not a native, 
has passed nearly the whole of his life here, and is 
now spending his declining years on a beautiful 
farm on section 22. 

Like many of the best residents of this county, 
our subject was born in York County, Pa., De- 
cember 10, 1825, and is the son of Frederick Roth, 
who also hailed from that place. CTrandfather 
Roth was a native of Hessen, Germany, and during 
the Revolutionaij- War in America deserted the 
army of his native countrj- and emigrated to the 
New AVorld. Here he was married and became 
the father of a family of four sons and two 
daughters. He was engaged in farming, and at 
the same time carried on a small store on his farm, 
thus supplying the settlers with the necessities of 
life. He was widelj' and favorably known in this 
locality, and here he and his good wife died. 

Frederick Roth was a farmer in Pennsylvania, 
and in May, 1831, moved his family and house- 
hold eflfects overland b}' means of a four-horse 
w.igon to this county. He purchased his present 
farm, which then contained a log house and barn, 
and about seventy-five acres of which were partiall3- 
improved. He and his w^ife shared in the experiences 
of that early date, and received sucii sciiooling in 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



413 



sturdy habits of the early settlers, that they were 
prepared to push tlieir own affairs to a successful 
issue. The father, wlio was a member of the 
Trinity Church, died when sixt^'-one years of age. 
He was a sound Democrat in politics, and was re- 
garded witli good-will and esteem by all his 
neighbors and friends. His wife, who was born 
in Penns\'lviinia in 1789, was, prior to her 
marriage, Miss ]\Iagdalena Simons; she reared a 
family of eight children: Susan, Peter, Jessie, 
John, Abraham, Frederick, Francis and Magdalena. 
The wife and motlier, who was also a member of 
the Trinity Church, died at the age of seventy-two 
years. 

He whose name heads this sketch was a lad of 
seven 3-ears when he was brought by his parents to 
this county, and remembers well the incidents of 
the overland journey. He is familiar with the 
greased-paper window lights which took the place 
of glass in the old times, as well as many other 
contrivances by which dwellers on the frontier 
"made shift" without the conveniences of life. 
When twenty -one years of age, he began to do for 
himself, at which time he was married, in Febru- 
ar3% 1846, to Miss Rachel Bender, by whom he 
became the father of three children, of whom 
the two living are Susan and Rachel. The 
wife died four years later, at which time our sub- 
ject disposed of his farm and stock and. going to 
Canton, was manager of a warehouse for about 
five years. In 18.51, he married Catherine Bair, 
and of the thirteen children I)orn to them, eight 
grew to maturity': Cyrus, John, Edwin. Will- 
iam, Frank, Adeline, Melissa and Katie. Mrs. 
Roth died in 1874, and the lady whom our subject 
chose as his third wife in February, 1877, was Mrs. 
Sarah (Cobaugh) Sailor. 

Mr. Roth returned to his farm in this township 
in 18.56, and has at the present time one hundred 
and sixty-three acres of very productive land. He i 
is engaged in mixed farming and stock-raising, ! 
and conducts his business in a systematic manner, 
and after the most approved modern methods. 
His present large frame barn, which w.as erected in 
1848, was remodeled in 187^, in which year his 
large brick residence was built. He has made 
many valuable improvements on his estate, and 



the grounds around his residence are tastefully 
laid out, and the place, as a whole, is one of the 
most attractive and desirable in this part of the 
county. 

Mr. Roth is a member of the Trinity Church, 
with which he has been connected for many years. 
Not only have his labors increased the wealth of 
his township, but his wisdom and practical good 
sense have made him of use in the management of 
public affairs, and he has been Trustee of his town- 
ship for several years. He has also served as a 
member of the School Board for twentv-eiglit 
years in succession, and in whatever capacity he 
has acted, has ever had an eye to tiie best interests 
of the community. Although reared a Democrat, 
he now gives his allegiance to the Republican 
party. He has been prominently connected with 
the Stai'k County Agricultural Society for four- 
teen 3'ears and has filled all the offices with the ex- 
ception of Secretary. He is also a charter member 
of Canton Township Grange, and of the County 
Grange. 



Km 



^'ACOB ECKROAD. Many of the native 
sons of Stark Count}' are already making 
their mark as efficient citizens, successful 
^^ farmers and men of business, and among 
these there are none more worthy of our mention 
than he whose name we have just given, who was 
born February 26, 1843. He is at present engaged 
in cultivating a fine estate in Tuscarawas Town- 
ship, and is one of the progressive farmers of this 
section. 

Joseph and Elizabeth (Singley) Eckroad, the 
parents of our subject, were natives of Schuylkill 
County, Pa., and emigrated in 1833 to this county, 
making their first location in Lawrence Township. 
There they made their home for m.any j'cars, and 
were ranked among the very earliest settlers of 
that region. Of their large family of children 
the following survive: Henry; Susannah, wife of 



4U 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Lewis Kittinger; Catherine, Mrs. David Gilker; 
Jflcob; Marj', Mrs. Samuel Albright; Joseph F.; 
Charles; Etta M.. Jlrs. B. Weygaiidt; and Cora 
B., Mrs. Alfred Shook. Tlie father of these 
children, who had been three times married, de- 
parted this life September 16, 1882, and in his 
death the countj- lost one of her best citizen 
He was a Republican in politics, and kept himself 
well informed on the issues of the day. He was 
stanch and true in his allegiance to the religious 
faith in which he was bred, that of the Lutheran 
Church, of which he was a member. His wife, who 
still survives him, makes her home in AVaj'ne 
County, this State. He was during his life closelj^ 
connected with the interests of Tuscarawas Town- 
ship as a farmer and land-holder, and was one of 
the well-to-do citizens. 

Mr. Eckroad, of this sketch, received his educa- 
tion in the common and High Schools of his na- 
tive count}^ and was carefull3- instructed in all 
kinds of agricultural work on the farm where his 
boyhood daya were profitabl^y and pleasantly spent. 
Through long 3'ears he has witnessed the growth 
and develoi)ment of this county, and has taken 
just pride in its progress, and has ever borne his 
part in the promotion of those enterpiises calcu- 
lated to advance the general welfare. With the 
exceptior^ of five years spent at the machinist's 
trade, Mr. Eckroad has alwa3's followed the occu- 
pation of a farmer, and bj- hard and persistent la- 
bor and excellent business tact has surmounted all 
obstacles and is now one of the prominent farmers 
of his section. 

Our subject was married June 22, 1865, to Miss 
Marj', daughter of Peter and Catharine AVe}'gandt, 
early settlers of this county, and now deceased. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Eckroad have been born seven 
children, naraelj-: Joseph C, who is a talented mu- 
sician; Gu^- C, Elden H., David H., Arden J., 
Jesse W., and John H. Our subject owns seventj^- 
four acres of land, which he has placed under cul- 
tivation and adorned with all necessary buildings. 
He has filled the otlice of School Director for six 
years, and for a twelvemonth was Chairman of the 
Tuscarawas Board of Education. He takes an ac- 
tive part in local politics,and is prominently iden- 
tified witli the progress of tlic Republican jiarty 



in this section. He and his wife are members of 
the Reformed Church, and he is held in respect by 
all as a good citizen and a most estimable man, 
whose life record is honorable and worthy of emu- 
lation. 



, ROF. VICTOR FREL Music has well Ijeen 
called the divinest of arts. The power to 
comprehend, appreciate and interpret the 
productions of the great masters is one of 
tlie most valuable of gifts and should be sedulously' 
cultivated by all. However rudimentary the musi- 
cal faculty may be, it should never be permitted 
to lie dormant, and in view of the splendid oppor- 
tunities for musical instruction that arc afforded 
by our modern civilization, there can be no excuse 
for neglecting an art which does so much to 
brighten life and elevate character. 

Canton is the fortunate jwssessor of an institu- 
tion affording unsurpassed facilities for the acqui- 
sition of a finished musical education. This 
institution is the Canton Conservatory- of Music, 
at Xo. 19 West Fourth Street, under the direction 
of Prof. Victor Frei, who has spared no pains to 
build up a school of music which will be a credit 
to the city, or, indeed, to any city in the land. 
An ardent lover of the divine art and one of its 
most enthusiastic disciples, his enthusiasm has 
powerfully contributed to the success of his efforts. 

Prof. Frei was born in Rome, Ital3', Marcli 28, 
1849. For a time his studies were pursued in his 
native city, and he is a graduate of the Ro3'al 
School of Music in Munich, Germany. He was 
born with the gift of music, and so early in life 
was his talent exhibited, that wlien six 3-ears old 
he assisted as organist in a Roman Catholic Church 
in Switzerland. His literary education was re- 
ceived principally in the schools of Switzerland 
and German3', and he was a professor of music in 
the Old World from his bo3'hood. 

In 1882, Prof. Frei emigrated to America and 
located in Brooklyn, N. Y.. where he remained 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



415 



for eight years. Thence he came, in 1890, to 
Canton as Director of the Sixth Central Ohio 
Saengerfest, and exhibited sucli great musical tal- 
ent tliat he was persuaded to make this cit3' his 
home. He was elected Director of the singing 
society Concordia, one of the best choral societies 
of the State, and has since been closely identified 
with musical circles throughout this section of 
country. 

The Canton Conservatory of Music is a notable 
institution of its kind, in which there are orchestra 
and chorus classes, and among the instruments 
taught are piano, violin, oi'gan and violoncello, 
as well as composition and voice culture. There 
is also a department for elocution and foreign 
languages. The course of instiuction is compre- 
hensive, embracing all desirable branches designed 
to impart a cultured understanding of music as an 
art. At frequent intervals during the winter sea- 
sons, concerts are given, which are always highly 
enjoyable and prove the rapid progress made by 
the students at the conservatory. 

Prof. Frei is the general agent for the Mason 
and Hamlin Organ and Piano Co., of Boston, and 
at the conservatory these justly celebrated instru- 
ments are used exclusively. 

In 1889, Prof. Frei was married to Miss Consuelo 
de Yarona, a native of Cuba, and they are the 
parents of one child, Edward Josepli Victor. 



IM^ 



■j^l DAVARD B. BAYLISS. Among the active 
1^ enterprises of a city like Massillon, the liv- 
It — ^ ery business occupies, necessarily, an im- 
portant place, contributing, as it does, to the pleas- 
ure, convenience and actual necessities of the 
community. Among the most notable establish- 
ments of this class in the city is that conducted by 
Edward B. Bayliss, one of the representative citi- 
zens and popular business men of the place. He 
is a native of this city, born on the 24th of De- 
cember, 1840, and here he passed his boyhood and 
youth. (P'or particulars of parents, see sketch of 



James Bayliss). He attended the first Union 
School in Massillon, and also the first one in the 
State, entering the school-room tlie first day, and 
completing the course. After this, he was agent 
for the old Union Line Express Company, then 
agent for the old Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago 
Railroad for four years, and subsequently was clerk 
for his brother in agricultural works for nine years. 

About this time, he opened the Tremont House 
in parlnersliip with Mr. Zielley, and called it the 
Zielley House, conducting it for thirteen montiis. 
Afterward, they rented the Transient Hotel, then 
known as Park Hotel, continued this part of one 
year, or until 1881, when Mr. Baj'liss continued it 
alone. He was the proprietor for four years, and 
those who have had an experience of his warm hos- 
pitalitj' will ever retain the most pleasurable recol- 
lections of tills liotel and its popular propi-ietor. 
Mr. Bayliss brought to bear upon the management 
of this house a thorough knowledge of the wants 
and requirements of his patrons, and had a flour- 
ishing business. In November, 1886, he sold out 
and went to Meyer's Lake, where he rented the sum- 
mer resort hotel, Lake Park, and conducted tliis 
with all his former aliility and success for three 
years. It then changed hands, and our subject 
sold out. 

About 1888, he decided that there was a good 
opening for the livery business in Massillon, and 
as he was not the man to allow such an opportunity 
to pass, he bought the livery business from Adam 
Volkmor, and has continued it very successfully 
since. As there are few features of metropolitan 
enterprises which contribute a larger quota to the 
convenience of the residential and transient public 
than the well-appointed livery stable, Mr. Bayliss 
has reaped a rich reward in the business, which he 
understands tiioroughly. He is thorough-going 
and progressive, and is one who will succeed in 
whatever he undertakes. 

Our subject w.as married in Massillon, in 1865, to 
Miss Carrie Zielley, a native of Canton, Ohio, and 
the daughter of Peter Zieilej', who was a prominent 
horseman here. The fruits of this union are three 
children, who are in the order of birth as follows: 
Lydia, a graduate of the schools of Massillon; 
George, who lost both his legs on the Ft. Wayne 



416 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Railroad; and Walter, at liome. Mr. Bayliss has 
been a member of the City Council two terms, and 
on different committees from the First Ward. He 
is now City Clerk of M.issillon, and is discharging 
the duties of that office in a very efficient and capa- 
ble manner. He is a faithful Republican in his 
political views, and is a public-spirited and much 
esteemed citizen. He is now residing on East 
ilain Street. 



/ *^ 



JUDGE JACOB P. FAWCETT, .Judge of the 
Probate Court, and a prominent and in- 
fluential citizen of Canton, is a native of 
' Pennsylvania. He was born in Allegheny 
County, January 2, 1851, and is a son of Andrew 
and Elizabeth (Pennypacker) Fawcett, both of 
whom were natives of the Keystone State. The 
father was a farmer, and died in Allegheny County 
when our subject was about fourteen j-ears of age. 
The mother afterward removed to Mt. Union, 
.Stark Count}-, Ohio, with her family in 1866, and 
now makes her home in Canton. 

The early boj'hood days of our subject were 
spent on his father's farm. After coming to Ohio, 
he entered Mt. Union College, working as a farm 
hand during vacations, in order to seeui'e funds to 
meet the expenses of the course. After graduating 
in 1871, he read law, and was admitted to the Bar 
in 1874. Entering upon the practice of his profes- 
sion in Alliance, he there remained until August, 
1877, since which time he has been a resident of 
Canton. For many j'ears he has been prominently 
identified with political affairs, and has been 
honored with a number of offices. In 1876, he 
was elected Mayor of Mt. Union, and from 1882 
until 1886 was a member of the Canton Cit^- 
Council, serving as President of that bod}' the last 
j'ear. The Republican party has found in him a 
stanch supporter, and lie served two years as Chair- 
man of tlie Republican County Central Commit- 
tee, and two years as a member of tlie Republican 



State Central Committee, doing good work. On 
the 23d of November, 1886, he was appointed 
Probate Judge to fill a vacancy, succeeding Judge 
Myer. At the next election, he was chosen to this 
office by a handsome m.ajority. and is the present 
incumbent. 

On the 6th of February, 1877, Judge Fawcett 
was united in marriage with Miss Jennie A., daugh- 
ter of Hon. John H. Mitchell, United States Sena- 
tor from Oregon. Their acquaintance w.as formed 
while students in Mt. Union College, and the}- 
have become the parents of four interesting chil- 
dren: Mattie E., Howard B., Ralph M. and John A. 
The}- reside at No. 57 High Street, where their 
pleasant hosjjitable home is always open for the 
reception of their many friends. 

Socially. Judge Fawcett is a member of Lodge 
No. 266, I. O. O.F.; Canton Lodge No. 362. K. P., 
and of the Protected Home Circle. He is also 
President of the Republican Club of Canton. In 
the line of his profession, he has won success, and 
while practicing law secured a liberal patronage. In 
connection with legal practice, he became interested 
in other business enterprises, and is now President 
of the Canton Combination Lock Company, and 
Director of the People's .Savings and Deposit Bank. 
As Probate Judge, his administration of affairs has 
won him high commendation, and one of the city 
papers speaks of him as one of the most efficient 
probate judges that Stark Count\- has ever had. 
His experience eminently qualifies him for the po- 
sition, and his uniform kindness, accommodating 
spirit, popularity, professional and business abil- 
itv have stood him in good stead. 



AMES A. SAXTON, There is no inheri- 
tance so rich .IS the record of the worthy 
lives of those who have parted from this 
world and have gone to receive the re- 
ward which awaits them in heaven. We all have 
strivings after a high ideal, but an ideal alone is 
of liltlo value if not re-eiiforeed by the example 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



iV. 



of those who, like oui-selves, liave humau frailties, 
yet have been enabled to so overcome them as to 
lead lives of u-^efulness, integrity and true godli- 
ness. TWs gives us new courage to continue our 
own efforts and aids us in making a success of our 
lives in the highest sense of the word. 

James A. Saxton was born in Canton, Ohio, 
on the site of the Saxton Block, and his i)arents, 
John and Margaret (Laird) Saxton, were na- 
tives of Huntingdon, Pa., the former born 
on the 28lh of September, 1792, and the latter on 
the 18th of December, 1792. The great grand- 
father, George Saxton, was a native of Engl.and 
and an early settler of Maryland. John Saxton 
was an active participant in the ^Yar of 1812, and 
was a brave and faithful soldier. On the 3d of 
August, 1815, he was married at Huntingdon, and 
came to Stark County, Ohio, on horseback, he and 
his wife riding all the way. After reaching this 
county, he established the Ohio Repository and for 
many years was the editor and proprietor of tins 
paper, which is now known as the Canton Reposi- 
toi-y. He lost his wife on the 28th of March, 
1858, he himself dying April 16, 1871. 
The}' were the parents of nine children, eight sous 
and one daughter. Mr. Saxton built the Saxton 
Block in 1880, and at his death left a large estate. 

For many }"ears Mr. Saxton was the principal 
stockholder and President of the Stark County 
Bank, and he was also one of the early members of 
the Board of Education, and performed valuable 
service in that capacity. His character was actual and 
positive, upright and downright. His temperament 
was heroic, his will intlexible. He was an extensive 
and thoughtful reader, keeping abreast of current 
events; his conclusions were just and liberal and 
frankly and fearlessly expressed. His lot was cast 
in the field of action rather than in the field of 
meditation — of business and commercial enterprise. 
And here he was active, sagacious and daring; in 
all his dealings prompt, conscientious and decisive. 
He was not unduly elated by success, nor crushed 
by reverses of fortune, although subjected to both 
dangerous tests. His industry was tireless. He 
hated idleness .and dishonesty, and said so with a 
blunt frankness and force that effectually rebuked 
them. When provoked and aroused, his anger was 



swift and stormy, but it left the air clear and redo- 
lent with the perfume of his better nature. He 
was earnest and sincere, and despised shams. He 
did not smile when he was not pleased, nor extend 
his hand when he was not friendly. He was with- 
c>ut ostentation. He was warm and true in his 
friendship, a kind husband and indulgent father, 
a sturdy and public-spirited citizen, and works of 
quiet charity' have m.ade his memory sacred to 
man}-. In, the midst of new plans and enterprises, 
with the l)urden of business interests resting upon 
him, surrounded by the objects of his life-long 
care and love, he paused a moment and fell asleep 
fore^•er. 

"No cold gradations of decay. 
Death broke at once the vital chain." 



\TpNjUBF;N SNYDER is a practical and wide- 
Ill^ awake member of the farming community 
4\ iV of Bethlehem, wliere he is meeting with un- 
qualified succes--s in agricultural pui-suits. 
He was boru in Northumberland County, Pa., 
May 2, 1819, to Daniel and Susannah Snyder, who 
were also natives of Pennsylvania. The fatlier is 
said to have been a soldier in the War of 1812 and 
was a farmer by occupation. 

In the spring of 1828, Daniel Snyder accompa- 
nied by his famil}' emigrated to this county and 
located in Bethlehem Township, making his home 
in a hewed log house, which he had erected on his 
farm. He devoted his entire time and attention to 
placing his land under good cultivation, and upon 
this he resided with his wife until their decease. 

Ruben Snyder of this sketch received his educa- 
tion in the pioneer schools, and his earlv home 
training was such as to instill good principles and 
habits of industry and economy', which have been 
of value to him in his active life. Unlike many 
young men, he chose to rem.ain with his parents un- 
til reaching his majority, helping them to the ox- 
tent of his whole power in clearing five different 
farms. He was married October 16. 1843. to Eliza 



418 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Shreder and to them was born a familj' of six 
cliildien, three of whom arc living, viz.: Adeline, 
Mrs. O. F. Johnson; Alice, the wife of J. C. Keller, 
and Ohio; Daniel, l-lnle\- and John are deceased. 

Mr. Snyder takes a warm interest in all that con- 
cerns the welfare of tliis section of country, is liberal 
in support of schemes to forward its improvement, 
and an active member of the Democratic party. 
He is also a member of the Lutheran Church at 
Navarre, in which denomination he has served as 
Deacon. His devoted wife, who proved such 
a helpmate to him in establishing a home in this 
county, departed this life October 18, 1891. She 
was a sincere and earnest member of the Lutheran 
Ciuirch, and wherever known was greatl3- respected 
for her kind heart and pleasant manners. 

He of whom we write began the struggle of life 
without means other than a sound mind in a sound 
body, and with tiial capital has acquired a goodly 
amount of property. He is a sincere Christian gen- 
tleman and is truthful and upright in all his deal- 
ings. 



FTLTON, a retired fanner and one of the 
county's most esteemed and worthy resi- 
dents, first saw the light of day in Tuscara- 
was Township. .Stark County, Ohio, on the 
14th of October, 1825. It is supposed that his fa- 
ther, George Fulton, was a native of the green isle 
of Erin, although the grandfather, Benjamin Ful- 
ton, was a native of Scotland. The latter came to 
America at an early date, and after residing for 
some time in Wa-shington County, Pa., located in 
Stark County, Ohio, where he bought one hundred 
and fifty acres of Government land. On this lie 
p.assed the remainder of his days. 

George Fulton, father of our subject, was one of 
six children born to his parents, three sons and 
three daughters,. and was about twenty-one years 
of age when he first came to Stark County, Ohio. 
He remained under the parental roof until after 
his father's death, and then took charge of the old 



homestead. He married Miss Betsy Forsyth, a na- 
tive of Ireland, who was but a little girl when she 
came with her parents to America. After tliis union, 
Mr. and Mrs. Fulton located on the old homestead, 
and there the father cultivated the soil until his 
death in 1852. Two years later, his widow followed 
him to the grave. They were the parents of five 
children, two daughters and three sons, as follows: 
Jane, Isabel, Benjamin, Robert and John. 

The eldest son born to this union, Benjamin Ful- 
ton, was early trained to the duties of farm life in 
Stark County, Ohio, and his first scholastic train- 
ing was in the log schoolhouse of pioneer days. 
In 1852, he was united in marriage to I\Iiss Esther 
.Smith, daughter of Samuel Smith, and a native of 
Monroe Count}-, N. Y., born near Rochester, on 
the 1st of October, 1830. She was but two years of 
age when she came with her parents to Ohio, and 
was reared in Ashland County. After his marriage, 
our subject located on the old homestead, and there 
cultivated the soil successfully for six j-ears. In 
1858, he sold the place and bought a farm in Law- 
rence Township, section 33, which he still owns. 
There were about fifty acres cleared, and a log 
cabin and log barn adorned it. Mr. Fulton imme- 
diately began clearing the remainder of the farm, 
and with the assistance of his industrious and' 
thrifty wife, soon had one of the pleasantest homes 
and finest farms in that section. The log house 
and log barn were removed for coinforlal)le frame 
structures, and to the original tract was added 
enough land to make one hundred and seventy- 
one acres. 

Concluding that he had contributed his share 
toward the improvement and advancement of the 
count}', Mr. B'lilton retired to a comfortable resi- 
dence in Canal Fulton, after having icsided cm his 
farm for twenty-eight years. This was in 1886, and 
he and his estimable wife have since resided there. 
They are the parents of seven children, five daugh- 
ters and two sons: Ester, born April 22, 1853, is 
the wife of Isaac T.aggart, who is a banker in Mass- 
illon; Ellen A., born January 11, 1855, died Feb- 
ruary 12, 1859; Samuel W., born June 19, 1857, 
is a resident of this county; Jennie A., born De- 
cember 19, 1859, died January 4, 18(52; Ettie M., 
born August 30, 1862, is the wife i>f Alviii Kittin- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



1 1 :t 



ger, of Canal find Fulton Streets, Massi lion; Eva 
M.. born June 2(!, 18G7, is at home, and George B., 
born February 22, 1870. The latter is a graduate of 
the High School of Canal Fulton, also of Duff's 
Commercial College of Pittsburgh, Pa., and is now 
clerking in Canal Fulton. 

Our subject handles a great deal of stock, buy- 
ing and selling, and is doing a good business. In 
politics, he is an ardent supporter of the Uei)ubli- 
can l)art3-, and is deeply interested in all political 
questions. He is well acquainted with Mr. McKin- 
ley. Mr. Fulton was elected .Justice of the Peace, 
and has held other township otlices. He is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episco|)al Church, and takes 
a deep interest in its working, as he does in all 
otlier worthy entcrjirises. He has been Trustee 
and Steward of the church. 



-^^ 



f 



\Ti OSKl'll U. Dl'MOrLIN. The love of sweet 
things is the most natur.al appetite and as 
healthy as any other. Sugar and sugar candy, 
puddings and preserves, recommend them- 
selves to the palate more by their delicious Havor 
than any other form of edible things. Very true, 
they are not suitable for sustaining life alone for 
a considerable period, but neither is an^' one of 
the proximate principles which constitute food. 
AVe should sicken or starve on starch, gluten, fat, 
albumen or sugar alone; but each of them is 
he.ilthful in its place, as a part of a properly ar- 
ranged diet. The American people, now the 
wealthiest, are rapidly acquiring the reputation of 
being the most luxurious people in the world. In 
their love of a rich diet they show their good 
sense, and their high living is reflected in the enor- 
mous amount of work, both mental and physical, 
they get through. It is for this reason that the 
manufacture of candies and fruit preserves has 
come to be one of the greatest industries of this 
country, and the establishments in this line rank 
in standing and extent of trade willi any class of 
business concerns. One of tiie largest institutions 



of its kind in this section of the county is carried 
on at Canton, Ohio, by the firm of Bechel, Dii- 
moulin i^: Co., manufacturers of and dealers m fine 
confectioneries, tobaccos, cigars, and grocers' sun- 
dries. 

Joseph II. Duinoulin, a nieniber oC the above- 
mentioned firm and a live business man, was born 
in the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg, Germany, on 
the 13th of April, 1841. He was the eldest of 
six children born to Henry and Ann (George) 
Dumoulin, natives of the Old Comitiy. The father 
was a merchant for many years and was a very 
successful business man. The boyhood of our 
subject was passed in his native village, and up to 
twelve years of age he received his schol.astic 
training in the common schools. After this, he 
entered St. Louis College at Metz, where he spent 
four j'ears, but subsequently went to Belgium, where 
he entered college in the city of Liege, and there 
pursued his studies for nearly- four years. 

In the spring of 1866, our subject sailed for the 
United States, landed in the city of New York,, 
and from there went direct to Detroit, Mich., 
where he entered the schools, taking his place in 
a class with small boys. He commenced with iiis 
letters, and in a few months had acquired a good 
knowledge of the English language. From there 
he went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he kept up his 
studies for a time, and from there to Louis- 
ville, Stark County, Ohio, where he began teach- 
ing school. This was the first enniloyment he had 
had after locating on American soil, and the first 
money he had earned. He continued teaching for 
two years, and in 1863 he came to Canton, Ohio, 
where he secured a situation in the hardware store 
of Conrad Sweitzer, with whom he remained for 
nearl}' two years. He was afterward employed by 
C. Biechele it Bro., manufacturers of soap, in the 
capacity of book-keeper, and remained with this 
firm from 1864 to 1886. 

In October of the latter year, Mr. Dumoulin 
formed a partnership with Charles P. and Henry 
J. Bechel, under the firm name of Bechel, Du- 
moulin tt Co., and engaged in the wholesale con- 
fectionery, tobacco, cigars and grocers' sun(hies 
business in the Maline Block, at No, 93 North 
Market Street, where he remained tiiree years. 



420 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 



But the business increasing, they were compelled 
to move to larger quarters, and bought a lot on 
the corner of Fifth and Piedmont Streets, where 
the3' built a three-storj- brick building, especiallj' 
fitted for their large business. Tliey have a largo 
and varied stock, and keep tliree men on the road 
as traveling salesmen. 

Mr. Dumoulin was married on the 8tli of Octo- 
ber, 1861, to Miss Mary V. Devoissoud, of Louis- 
ville, Ohio, who, although a native of Ciiaraounix, 
was born at the foot of ]Mt. Blanc, France. Six chil- 
dren have blessed this union, tiiree sons and tliree 
daughters. Mr. Dumoulin was a member of the 
City Council from the First Ward during the 
years 1890 and 1891, and was President of the 
Council. He has also been a member of the 
Board of Health several years, and is at present 
one of the Directors of the Canton Board of 
Trade. His residence is at Xo. 1.59 North Cleve- 
land Avenue. Politicallv. he is a Democrat. 



'I%y^\ ATHIAS ERTLE. In mentioning tliose of 
foreign birth wiio have become promi- 
nent in their different callings in Stark 
Countv, Ohio, we siiould not fail to pre- 
sent an outline of the career of Mr. Ertle, for 
lie is one vvlio has fully borne out the reputation 
of that class of industrious, energetic and far-see- 
ing men of German nativity who have risen to 
prominence in different portions of this country. 
He was originality from Bavaria, born on the 14th 
of March, 1828, and his father, Frederick Ertle, 
was also a native of that country. The elder Mr. 
Ertle was a stonemason by trade and followed that 
calling in his native country until 1832, when the 
advantages afforded by the New World tempted 
him to tr3' liis fortune on this side of tlic ocean. 
After touching American soil, he came direct to 
Massillon, Ohio, and in connection with his trade 
worked at contracting and building. He was a 
skilled workman and found plent}- of employment. 
His death occurred when sixty -three years of age. 



He was married in his native country to Miss 
Regina Schandiug, a native of Bavaria, who lived 
to be quite aged, dying on the lOtli of May, 1889, 
when eighty-eight 3-ears of age. Slie was a member 
of the Catholic Cliurch. 

Of tlie seven children born to this worthy' cou|)le, 
six are still living and three make their homes 
in Massillon, Ohio. Of these our subject was 
third in order of birth. He came to Massillon 
with his parents in September, 1832, after an ocean 
voyage of fort3--six days, and in this city passed 
his boyhood and youth. He received but a limited 
education, only attending a few winters, but lie 
was naturally- possessed of a studious and well-bal- 
lanced mind and was mainly self educated. His 
earl^' life was passed in assisting his father in clear- 
ing the farm and later he worked out on a farm 
until 1848, when lie began learning the mason's 
trade under his father. He abandoned this in 18.")0, 
and being taken with tlie gold fever, he went to 
California. He made the trip via the Isthmus and 
was a long time on the voyage. After reaching 
the Pacific Coast, he was engaged for fort}- da^s 
in driving a team of two yokeof oxen, in hauling 
provisions from Sacramento to Kull's Rancli. 
After this he was engaged in prospecting for gold 
until 1851, when he went to Humbug Canon and 
prospected there until the fall, when he decided 
to return to the East. He returned via the Nica- 
ragua route, and after reaching Massillon, he was in 
the wareliouse of Mr. Ralston until the spring of 
1853. After' tliis he embarked in the grocery bus- 
iness on Main Street, continued tliis for four 
3'ears, and then bought fortv-one acres near tlie 
Bridgeport Stone (^uariy. He farmed for nine 
years, but sold his place in 1864 and returned to 
Massillon, where he opened a meat market on 
Main Street. Later, he bought tlie property at 
No. 21 East Main Street and was in business for 
twenty years. He sold out to his son-in-law, but 
at the present time his son carries on the business. 
He built his present residence in 1872 at No. 63 
North Mill Street and also owns the residence ad- 
joining. 

Our subject was married in 1M.")4 to Miss Nabuiga 
Bauniberger, a native of Switzerland, who was 
brought to America by her parents when but a 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



421 



year old. She died on the 3d of January, 1892, 
and was a lady widely' and favorably known for 
her many excellent qualities. She left seven 
children, who are named in tlie order of their 
births as follows: Fred, engaged in the meat 
business; Mary, Mrs. Sonnhalter, is living in 
Massillon; Louisa, Annie, Flora, George A. and 
Frances L.; all are at home but Mary and Fred. Mr. 
Ertle is Township Trustee for Perry Township, and 
is now filling his fifth j-ear in that capacity. He 
is a member of the St. Mary 's Catholic Church and 
was one of the trustees when it was being built, and 
holds that position at the present time. In poli- 
tics, he is a Democrat in national affairs. Mr. 
Ertle is one of the much esteemed men of the 
county, and is universally respected. After a 
long life of success and usefulness, he is now re- 
tired from the active duties of life, and is passing 
the remainder of his days in peace and plenty'. 



• ' ^S- 



E^^^ 



<^ MLLIAM E. SEFT(JN is Secretary and Treas- 
\/iJli "^"^^ ^^ ''''^ Princess Plow Compan}^, of 
WW Canton, and is one of the prominent busi- 
ness men of that city. He has the honor of being 
a native of Ohio, having been born in the city of 
Norwalk, Huron County-, on the lltli of February, 
1842. His father, Thomas Sefton, was a native of 
Penns3lvania, and an iron mechanic by trade. 
He died in Rowsburg, Ohio, in February, 1892. 
His wife was, in her maidenhood, Jane Wyble. 
She was also a native of the Buckeye State and a 
daughter of Anthony Wyble, a farmer and early 
settler of Huron County, Ohio. 

Mr. Sefton whose name heads this record spent 
the days of his youth in Ashland County, Ohio, 
and began his education in the district schools of 
the neighborhood. He aided in the labors of the 
farm and remained at home until 1860, when he 
was apprenticed to the blacksmith's trade, but the 
following year he abandoned that work to enter 
the service of his country. He was assigned to 
Company G, Twenty-third Ohio Infantry, uiidir 



Col. Rosecrans, and the regiment was attached to 
the Army of West Virginia. He participated in 
the battles of Carnifax Ferry, Clay Mountain, 
South Mountain, and many other engagements. 
His bravery on the field of battle and his meritori- 
ous conduct won for him promotion, and he was 
appointed Captain, a well-deserved honor. He 
served for three years, and on the expiration of 
his term was mustered out, in July, 1864. 

(Jn leaving the war, Mr. Sefton returned to his 
home and engaged in farming until 1872, when he 
turned his attention to other pursuits. For some 
time he engaged in the grocery business in Salem, 
Ohio, after which he became General Agent for C. 
Aultman & Co., traveling in different parts of 
Ohio. With that company he remained until 1885, 
when he resigned his position as General Agent to 
accept a position with the Princess Plow Company, 
of which he became a stockholder. He was soon 
afterward appointed Secretary and Treasurer, and 
at present is one of the principal stockholders and 
the General Manager of this extensive business. 
They engage in the manufacture of various kinds 
of plows, their sales are large and the)' furnish em- 
ployment to seventy-five men. The main building 
of the plant is 200x250 feet, with one wing one 
hundred feet long, and another one hundred and 
twenty feet in length. Since Mr. Sefton has t.ken 
charge of the work, he has remodeled and S3'stem- 
atized the buildings, until everything about the 
works is in good running order. He himself is 
not only a practical mechanic, but a skilled work 
man, and therefore veiy capable of acting as Suppr- 
intendent. 

On the 6th of February, 1867, Mr. Sefton mar- 
ried Miss Lucetta Faddis, of Enon Valley, Pa., 
daughter of Isaac Faddis. They have a pleasant 
home at No. 138 South Cleveland Avenue, and 
their union has been blessed with three children: 
-Jennie, wife of R. A. Nichols; Edith and Hariy, 
who are still under the parental roof. 

Mv. .Sefton exercises his right of franchise in 
support of the Republican party, and is quite 
prominent in its circles. He was elected a member 
of the City Council in 1889, and has served for 
the past two years, for one of which he was its Presi- 
dent. He is Ti-easurer of the Republican League 



422 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of Ohio, and is well known to the prominent Re- 
publicans of the State. He is an Odd Fellow, be- 
longing to the Subordinate Lodge and Encamp- 
ment. Of the American Mechanics' society he is a 
member, and is a Comrade of Canton Post No. 25, 
G. A. R. Reared as a farmer bo}', lie determined 
to give his attention to other lines of business, and 
has worked his waj' upward until he not onl3- ranks 
high in business circles but has attained a place 
among the substantial citizens of the communit}'. 
His life lias been well and worthily spent, and tlie 
confidence and good-will of all with whom lie has 
come in contact have thus been gained. 



.^^#^^ 



GRACE G. McDowell, Proprietor of the 
Pleasant View and Spring Hill Stock Farms 
in Plain Township, five miles north of Can- 
ton, and the world-famed breeder of the 
famous National Dickinson slieep, was born Sep- 
tember 7, 1853, on the farm which is now his home. 
His father, James McDowell, was a native of Penn- 
sylvania, his parents emigrating to that State from 
the North of Ireland, the family coming to Ohio 
in 1818. When a lad of fourteen, James was em- 
ployed on the farm of William R. Dickinson, in 
Stark County, as a shepherd lad, and from that time 
until his deatli was connected with sheep. After 
two years, Mr. Dickinson remarked that, of all the 
men he ever had in his employ, none proved so 
faithful, or so worthy of advancement, as Mr. Mc- 
Dowell, and he gave liim the exclusive general 
management of his herds. He afterward began 
business for himself with three sheep from Mr. 
Dickinson's flock. Tlie last fifty-four years of liis 
life were spent at his home, Pleasant View, wliere 
he was extensively engaged in sheep-growing. 
He continually improved the breed of his sheep, 
and no finer could be found in the world than 
those he owned. He made liis farm one of the most 
valuable and beautiful in Ohio, and was recognized 
as one of the most prominent nnd iiilluential citi- 
zens of this community. 



When the father died, his work was taken up by 
his son Horace, who was reared and educated on 
the home farm. After attending the district 
schools he entered Mt. Union College, where he 
pursued a short course of study. 

On the Uth of April, 1887, Mr. McDowell mar- 
ried Miss Nettie Huber, a native of Plain Town- 
ship, and unto them liave been born three children: 
James Huber, Thonas C. and Beulah Ma}'. The\' 
reside on the Pleasant View Stock Farm and their 
home is one of the finest in the county. The fam- 
ily ranks high in social circles. 

At the age of fifteen, Mr. McDowell took the 
practical management of the farm, and has since 
been one of the leading sheep-breeders in this 
country. He has six hundred and forty acres of 
the finest-improved and most fertile land in Stark 
County. It is divided into two farms. The Spring 
Hill Farm comprises over two hundred acres, with 
double frontage on one mile of the west branch of 
Nimishillen Creek, winch affords ample water sup- 
ply for the stock. The Pleas.ant View Stock Farm 
comprises over four hundred acres, and is well 
watered by springs, while hydraulic machinery 
forces the water through the house, barns and to 
the watering-places. He carries on general farm- 
ing, yet m.akes a specialty of breeding Short-horn 
cattle and National Dickinson sheep. To the lat- 
ter business he has devoted his energies since 1882, 
and since tliat time has sold in thirty-three differ- 
ent States, including all the Slates west of the 
Mississippi River except Washington, Nevada and 
Oregon. His daily correspondence h.as become so 
large that it consumes nearly his entire time. Four 
men are continually employed upon the farm. A 
fine, large frame barn, and many other necessary 
outbuildings furnish shelter for his stock, and liis 
commodious and elegant brick residence, which 
was built by his father in 1846, is located on the 
hillside in the midst of beautiful shade trees, and 
commands a fine view of the country to the south 
and east. 

In 1885, Mr. JIcDowell purchased the control- 
ling interest in the Farmers' Bank of Canton, aud 
was its Manager for six years, but as his increasing 
stock business demanded his entire lime, he was 
compelled to sell his bank stock in 1891. In poll- 





^:i>^h'T^n^^tA-^ 



^/ 



-^Z^^T-^^L^- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 



425 



tics, he was a Democrat until 1888, but on account 
of tlie free trade views of that party, he joined the 
Kepublicau ranlis. His wife is a member of the 
Reformed Cliurcii. As a business man, he is en- 
terprising, practical and progressive, systematic and 
methodical, and, above all, is reliable. He has won 
excellent success in his undertakings, bul it is 
merely the result of his own well-directed efforts. 




AMUEL ESCllLIMAN, who has followed 
farming throughout his entire life, is now a 
leading agriculturistof Lawrence Township, 
residing on section 3.3. He was born in Lan- 
caster Count}-, Pa., May 29, 1833, and is a repre- 
sentative of the honored early settlers of Stark 
County. His parents left their home in the Key- 
stone State wlicn our subject was a lad of fonr sum- 
mers and took up tlieir residence in this communit}-. 
Since that time Samuel has resided in the vicin- 
ity of his present home. The days of his boyhood 
and youth were spent in the usual manner of farmer 
lads and he acquired his education in the district 
schools of the neighborhood. 

On the loth of January, 1 8.5(5, in AVaync County, 
Ohio, Mr. Eschliman was united in marriage with 
Miss Anna Martin, who was born in that county, 
November 4, 1833. The young coujjle began their 
domestic life upon the farm which has since been 
the home of our subject, and there reared a family 
of twelve children, four sons and eight daugliters, 
as follows: Mary A., wife of Frank P. Zimmerman, 
of Lawrence Township; Fannie J., wife of Edward 
H. Hershej', of Lawrence Township; Sarah H., wife 
of Martin L. HoUinger, of Lawrence Township; 
Anna B., wife of Amos M. Horst, of the same town- 
ship: David H., who married Barbara A. Kornhaus, 
of AVaync County, Ohio, is living in Tuscarawas 
Township; Susan B., deceased wife of Aaron M. Eb- 
lery; Elizabeth M., who died in 1869; Henry A. and 
P'mily J. at home; Elmer S., who is attending school 
in Mount Union; Ida Ma}' and Samuel C, who are 
still under the parental roof. The mother of tliis 

21 



family was called to her final rest June 19, 1888, 
and her death was mourned b_v many friends as 
well as by her immediate farnih', for she was an 
estimable lady held in regard by all. 

When Mr. Eschliman located upon his farm it 
was partially unimproved, but with characteristic 
energy he began its development and has made it 
a valuable tract of land, its fertile fields now yield- 
ing him a golden tribute for the care and labor he 
bestows upon it. In his political attiliations, he is 
a Republican. The cause of education finds in him 
a warm friend, and he has done effective service for 
its advancement while serving as School Director. 

The best interests of the community always re- 
ceive his support, as he is a public-spirited and pro- 
gressive citizen. He holds membership with the 
Mennonite Church and for fifteen years has served 
as one of its Deacons, and he also fills the office of 
Trustee. 

His residence in .Stark County covers a period of 
fifty-five years, during which time he has witnessed 
niucli of its growth and upbuilding and has aided 
in its development. lie certainly deserves repre- 
sentation in the history of his adopted count}'. 

Ill addition to his home farm our subject owns 
one hundred and .seventy-seven acres on section 19, 
Lawrence Township, which contains a fine vein 
of coal, from which he receives a good income. 



m 



OHN POLLOCK. Tlie trade carried on in 
groceries is of very great importance, and 
constitutes a leading factor in the commer- 
' cial fabric of the smaller towns and villages. 
It is a line of l)usiness requiring special qualilica- 
tioiis of a high order, and only those possessed of 
these succeed in this somewhat precarious uniler- 
taking. Prominent among those engaged in this 
line of business in North Lawrence is John Pol- 
lock, who is also the efficient Postmaster at that 
plae... 

Air. Pollock was Itorn in the North of liel.and. 



426 



POETRAIT Ai\D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



on the 20lh of January, 1839, and his father, 
George Pollock, was a native of the same place. 
The latter followed the occupation of a farmer un- 
til 1818, when he removed to Scotland, and there 
resided until 1863, when he came to the United 
States, locating in Stark County, Ohio. In this 
State his death occurred when about seventy-two 
years of age. The mother of our subject was form- 
erly Miss Elizabeth Mahau, a native of the North 
of Ireland, and died in Stark County at the age of 
ninety years. Three daughters and three sons were 
born of this union, all of whom married and reared 
families. All are now living but one. 

Our subject was the youngest child in the parental 
family and was taken to Scotland by his parents 
when eight years old. In 1862, he crossed the ocean 
with tliem to the "land of the free," and equipped 
with a good piactical education received in the Old 
Country, he branched out to make his way in life. lie 
settled with his parents in Newman, Stark County, 
Ohio, and as he had followed mining in .Scotland, 
he engaged in the same business after reaching this 
county. He removed to North Lawrence in 1868, 
continued his former business, and in 1872 was 
elected l)y the miners to serve as a delegate to 
represent the mining interests at Columbus. He 
was interested in this business until 1876, and was 
appointed by them as President of the Miners' As- 
sociation, and was Assistant Secretary of the Na- 
tional Miners' Association for one year. He took 
a prominent part in the organization of the Min- 
ers' Union, and was interested in this until he was 
appointed Postmaster of North Lawrence. He was 
also elected Justice of the Peace. Later, he re- 
signed the position of Postmaster, and entered the 
Railroad Mail Service, where he was engaged for 
four years, running first on the Pittsburgh <fe In- 
dianapolis. Afterward, he was transferred from 
Canal Dover to Marietta, thence to Pittsburgh and 
Chicago, and from Pittsburgh to Crestline. 

In February, 1890, he was appointed Postmaster 
in North Lawrence, and after locating here en- 
gaged in the grocery business, which he has car- 
ried on very successfully ever since. He is a 
member of Elliott Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Canal 
Fulton. Mr. Pollock was married in vScotland, to 
Miss Catherine Main, a native of Scotland, and 



the following children have been born to this 
union: George F., in the General Land Office 
at AVashington, D. C; Jeanette R,, wife of Ben- 
jamin F. Clapper, of Dalton, Ohio; Elizabeth M., 
wife of Wallace Dixon, of Lawrence Township, 
this county; John J., of Alliance, this county; 
Robert A., attending school at Mt. Union; Jane 
D., at home assisting in the postolHce; Peter D. 
and Alice D., at home. 



^^' 



A TT HE W BAST, A'ice-presidenl of the 
Canton Stove Company, is one of the 
worthy citizens that Germany has fur- 
nished to Canton. He was born' in Steni- 
feld, Bavaria, Germany, on the 31st of August, 
1848, and is a son of W. E. and Catherine Bast. 
His parents emigrated to this country in 1871, and 
located in Canton, where they still reside. The 
father has been a tailor most of his life, and is a 
finely educated man. 

Matthew Bast, whose name heads this record, is 
the eldest of the family of six children. He was 
chiefly educated in his native land, and attended 
the public schools until fourteen years of age. At 
that time, he liegan learning the trade of a tailor, 
which he followed until he had attained his ma- 
jority. On arriving at man's estate, he determined 
to seek his fortune in America, and crossed the 
Atlantic, landing safely in New York City. Thence 
he came direct to Canton, and worked at the tail- 
oring business for three years. He then em- 
barked in the grocery business, and two years later 
admitted to partnership two of his younger broth- 
ers, Michael .and John Bast, under the firm name 
of J\L Biist & Brothers. This connection was con- 
tinued until 1888, when our subject sold out to his 
brothers. While engaged as a grocery merchant, 
he had liuilt up a good trade, and made money 
rapidly. On selling out, he became a member of 
the Canton Stove Company, and on its organiza- 
tion was elected Vice-president, whicli position he 
still holds. He is now one of its extensive stock- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RPXORD. 



127 



holders, and is also a stockholder and Director of 
the Champion Lawn Rake Compan.y, of Canton. 
He also owns a good store building on West Tus- 
caravvas Street, in which he is running a restaur- 
an t. 

In the year 1872, Mr. Bast was married to Miss 
Mary Piero, daughter of Charles Piero, of Canton. 
By their union five children have been born: 
Mary, .John, Charles, William and Edward. The 
family resides at No. 117 North Cleveland Avenue, 
and are highly respected citizens of Canton, where 
they have many warm friends and a large circle of 
acquaintances. 

Mr. Bast has served one term as a member of 
tlie City Council, representing the First Ward. He 
has never been an office-seeker, howevei', preferring 
to devote his entire time and attention to his busi- 
ness interests, in which he has met with signal suc- 
cess. His prosperity is all the reward of his own 
efforts, and he is truly a self-made man, de- 
serving all the praise which that term implies. He 
began life in this country empty-handed, and has 
worked his way upward until he is now numbered 
among the substantial citizens of tlie commuuit3' 
and its i)ron)iuent business men. 



■^I'OHN FREEMAN. This venerable gentle- 
man is one of tlie early pioneers of this 
county, where he has made his home for a 
^^;_j^' number of jears, and he is now enjoying 
its peaceful comfort, retired from tlie hard labors 
of life, by which he develo])ed here one of the fine 
farms for which the locality is noted. 

Essex County, N. J., is the native place of our 
subject, and .Tanuary 16, 1810, the date of his birth. 
His parents were David and Susan Freeman, na- 
tives respectively of New York State and New 
Jersey. When our subject was a lad of twelve 
years, he was orphaned by the death of his mother, 
and then began to battle with life on his own ac- 
count. He was only three years of age wlien he 
was brought by his parents to Jefferson County, 



this State, where they were among the early set- 
tlers. After the death of his mother, }"Oung Free- 
man began working out on farms, and received his 
early education in the primitive log schoolhouse 
with its rude furnishings. He did much pioneer work 
in this county, and many were the privations and 
hardships he endured with his parentsv when locat- 
ing here, and he aided them greatly in subduing the 
soil, bringing it to its present high state of culti- 
vation and making the various improvements that 
have so greatly increased its value. 

May 3, 1829, John Freeman and Miss Mary 
Scott, who was born in Scotland, December 22, 
1812, were united in marriage. She was a daugh- 
ter of John and Elizabeth (Tulley) Scott, who 
were also natives of .Scotland. In 1818, whea six 
years of age, Mrs. Freeman accompanied her par- 
ents on their emigration to America, they locating 
in the woods of West Virginia, where they made 
their home for two years, and thence coming to 
Washington County, this State, they lived there for 
three years, when they again returned to West 
Virginia and spent the following twelvemonth. 
At the end of that time, Mr. and Mrs. Scott again 
took up their abode in Ohio, this time making 
their home in Jackson Township, Stark Count}-. 
The father was a shepherd in his native country, 
and on his arriving in this county took charge of 
three thousand sheep for Bazaliel Wells, an early 
settler and formerly a well-known citizen of this 
section. 

Mrs. Freeniiin has two brothers living, John and 
William. She is, like her husband, one of the pio- 
neers of this county, and with him entered upon 
the hard task of establishing their home in a new 
section and sturdily determined to conquer all ob- 
stacles. To them have been born the following chil- 
dren: Elizabeth, Mrs. Ambrose Whipple; Mary, the 
wife of George Ingold; Susan, Mrs. John Bailey; 
Jeanette Ann, Mrs. Gabriel Swihnrt; Agnes; 
Adelia, Mrs. John Swinehart; Arietta, the wife of 
Prof. Lester Nave; Oren and John. 

Mr. Freeman, of this sketch, is a standi Repub- 
lican ill politics and keeps himself well posted in 
all matters pertaining to his party. With his wife, 
he is a conscientious member of the Baptist Cliurch 
and endeavors to put in practice the teachings of 



428 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAnilCAL RECORD. 



that organization. Mr. Freeman has contributed 
his quota in bringing about the present high stand- 
ing of Perry Township as an agricultural region 
of great productiveness, and as an old settler his 
name will ever Ije honorably mentioned in its his- 
tory. 



^^^• 



^^BRMXAM Sl'ONSELLER is a fine repre- 
^^Llli sontative of the native-born citizens of 

jj ik Starlv County wlio are now closely asso- 
((^ ciated witli its interests. He comes of a 

distinguished and well-known pioneer family, and 
is one of the principal farmers and stock-raisers in 
Canton Township, where he has extensive inter- 
ests. He was born on the northeast quarter of 
section 25, in the above-named township, October 
8, 1820, while his father, John Sponseller, was born 
in 1789, in Adams County, Pa. . 

Giandfather Frederick Sponseller was a carpen- 
ter during his earl^- life, and was born in Penns_vl- 
vania, of German parents. After coming to Ohio, 
in. 1802, he located in Columbiana County, where 
he entered a tract of land, on which he erected a 
log cabin and began the work of its improvement. 
Indians, as well as wild animals, were numer- 
ous, and bears often attacked the hogs of the pio- 
neers. The grandfather lived and died there at 
the advanced age of eighty j^ears. His wife, who 
lived to be about the same age, reared a large family' 
of children, namely: .lohn, Henry, George, Freder- 
ick, Andrew, Conrad and .Julian. Religiously, the 
grandparents were members of the Lutheran 
Church, and in politics, Frederick .Sponseller was a 
Democrat. 

The father of our subject, who accompanied his 
parents on their removal to Columbiana County, 
this .State, there resided until reaching his major- 
it3', when he returned on foot to his native county 
in Pennsylvania, and there worked f()r two or 
three j'ears. At the end of that time, coming again 
to this State, he was married in Washington 
Township, this county, March 28, 181.5. He made 
his home on the northeast quarter of section o, 



■which was the property of his father, and besides 
being engaged in its operations was a member in 
a mercantile enterprise. He was very unfortunate 
in his venture, and was compelled to |jart with 
his stock iu the concern and several hundred dol- 
lars beside. 

Mr. .Sponseller then determining to follow the 
occu]iation of a farmer, erected a log cabin on an 
uncultivated tract of land which he cleared, and 
at the same time worked out for other parties, i-e- 
ceiving for his labor fifty cents per day. Like all 
the old settlers, he was subjected to many hard- 
ships and inconveniences, and was compelled to go 
to Cleveland to market his grain. Although a 
sufferer from rheumatism all his life, he was a very 
hard worker and successful agriculturist, owning at 
one time as much as thirteen hundred acres of 
land in Stark, Seneca and Wyandotte Counties. 
The property in the latter two counties he entered 
from the Government, and later divided the 
amount between his children. He was in all re- 
spects a mau of excellent character, whose oblig- 
ing manner and honest, straightforward dealings 
gained him the regard of all about him. He pos- 
sessed foresight and sound common-sense, and was a 
very capable manager, so that his place was among 
the solid men of this townshij). He departed this 
life in 1874. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Catherine Herpster. She was born in Frederick 
County, Md., June 28, 1794, and came to this 
county with her parents, Frederick and Maiy 
Herpster, in 1814, they locating in Washington 
Township. Her father was born in Baden Baden, 
Germany, and was a young man when he came to 
America, making his first location in Maryland. 
On coming to this section, he was one of the early 
settlers in the above-named township, and entering 
a tract of land from the Government, immediately 
began the arduous task of clearing it from the 
forest and brush, and placing it under good im- 
provement. He owned an entire section of six 
hundred and forty acres of land, and was known 
throughout the county as a succe.ssful farmer, and 
his standing in the business world w.as of the 
highest, as his dealings were .alw.ays conducted 
after the most honorable methods. He w.as bright 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



429 



and wide-awake, and possessed true public spirit 
whicli favored anj' sclieme that would in any way 
promote the advancement of his township. He 
was drafted into the Whiskey Rebellion during 
President Washington's administration. In April, 
1814, he was married to Miss Mary Siiarlows, and 
to them were born nine children. In religious 
affairs, Mr. Herpster was one of the influential 
members of the Lutheran Church. 

Our subject was one in a family of eight chil- 
dren, namely: Frederick, Mary and Julia Ann, 
deceased; John, Catherine, Henry and David. The 
mother died at the advanced age of ninet}' years, 
nine months and two d.ays. Witli her husband, slie 
was a member of the Lutheran Church, and a most 
estimable and worth}- lady. In his political rela- 
tions, the father of our subject was a Democrat. 

Abraham Sponseller received his first schooling 
in a log cabin with its primitive furnishings, and, 
in the intervals of study, assisted his father on the 
farm until reaching his majority. He then entered 
tlie schools of Canton, where he assiduousl}- pur- 
sued a course of study, and Las since added to the 
knowledge gained therein by systematic and use- 
ful reading. His marriage witli Miss Elizabetli 
Stoner occurred April 15, 1847. Mrs. Sponseller 
was born in Penns3ivania, May 18, 1823, and 
reared a family of eight children: John II., George 
W., Samuel, William, Mary, David, Lucy and 
Augustus. 

After his marriage, lie of wiium we write took 
up liis abode on section 25, where lie had lifty 
acres of land, and there resided until 1865. At 
that date he located on the quarter-section of land 
where lie is at present residing, and which, with its 
well-tilled fields and neat appointments, is one of 
the most desirable farms in tliis part of the county. 
The residence is a well-built and attractive one, 
furnished in accordance with tlie tastes of its oc- 
cupants, and displays the presence of refined 
womanliood in its arrangement. Mr. Sponseller 
also has on his place a large frame barn and all 
other outbuildings which are necessary to the 
successful prosecution of his calling. After con- 
sideration of the political questions that agitate 
tlie people, our subject gave his allegiance to 
the Democratic i>arty, and stanchly supports its 



various measures. He is, however, independent on 
local issues. He has been called upon to serve in 
the responsible offices of Justice of the Peace and 
Township Trustee. Although reared in the faith 
of the Lutheran Church, he is not a member of 
any religious body. His wife, who is connected 
with the Evangelical Society, is the (lossessor of 
many friends. 



I^^HOMAS VAN HORN. It gives us pleasure 
(f'i^. to place upon the pages of this volume a 
V^/^ review of the life of our subject, who is 
one of the foremost farmers of this section of the 
State. He has been very successful in the acquire- 
ment of wealth, and as a progressive and enlight- 
ened agriculturist, is doing much to advance the 
farming interests of the county. 

Our subject, who is pleasantly' located on section 
19, Canton Township, was born in East Township, 
Carroll County, this State, October 13, 1823, and 
is a son of Abraham Van Horn, who was born in 
New Jersey. His father, who also bore the name 
of Abraham, was a native of Holland, and on 
coming to America with his parents, prior to the 
outbreak of the Revolutionary War, located in 
New Jerse}', where he carried on his occupation of 
a farmer. Later, he removed to the Keystone 
State, and there passed the remainder of his life, 
dying at the advanced age of ninety-nine years, 
eleven months and eleven days. 

The father of our subject, who also followed 
agricultural pursuits, was married in Pennsylvania, 
and in 1817, when making the trip to this State, 
was accompanied by his wife and one child. The 
journey was made overland with a team and 
wagon, and on arriving in Ohio, Mr. Van Horn 
made his home in that portion of Columbiana now 
included in Carroll County. There he purchased 
land, for which he paid 12.25 per acre, and on it 
erected the customary log cabin with clapI)oard 
roof, puncheon floor, and aw n\to.\\ fireplace, which 
would accommodate a loy six feet in Icnsith. He 



430 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, 



became the owner of, and partiallj' developed, one 
liundred and forty acres of land, which he sold in 
1843, and moving further West, to Illinois, located 
in McHenry County, where he purchased a quarter- 
section of land and resided until his decease, 
which occurred in his seventy-fourth }-ear. He 
was a man of sterling worth, who was looked upon 
with respect by his fellow-citizens. In religions 
affairs* he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and until 1860 exercised the right of 
suffrage in behalf of the Democratic party, when 
he voted for Abraham Lincoln and thereafter cast 
a Republican vote. 

Tlie lady to whom the father of our subject was 
married bore the maiden name of Sarah Reed and 
was a native of Pennsj-lvania. She was first mar- 
ried to John Rener, by whom she had five children: 
Benjamin, John, Jane, AVilliam and James. Seven 
children were born of her second marriage: Isaac, 
Elizabeth, Robert, Abraham, Thomas, Charlotte 
and Marj'. The mother, who was an earnest 
member of the Christian Church, died when sev- 
enty-seven years of age, and her loss was keenly 
felt in the community, wliere she was active in all 
good works. 

Tiiomas Van Horn, of this sketch, remained in 
Carroll County until eighteen years of age. He 
was reared on a farm and attended the primitive 
log sehoolhouse, which was heated by a large open 
fireplace and lighted by four windows with nine 
8x10 lights. When eighteen years of age, our 
subject began the battle of life in earnest, and 
coming to this county, served three years appren- 
ticeship at the chair-making and painting trades. 
Returning soon after to Carroll County, in com- 
pany with his brotiier Abraham he opened a shop, 
which they ctmducted for a year and a half, and 
at the end of that time our subject purchased the 
interest of his brother, and was thus engaged for 
tiiree and one-half years on his own account. 
Tiien disposing of his shop and appliances, he 
again came to Stark County and lived on rented 
property for a twelvemonth, wlien, having saved 
a sufticient sum of mone}' and selected a suitable 
location, he purchased eighty acres of land. On 
this propert}' he erected a residence and necessar}' 
outbuildings, and tliere remained for fourteen 



years, or until 1866, when he traded that estate for 
a one hundred and sixty acre tract, where he is 
residing at the present time. 

September 6, 1845, Thomas Van Horn and Miss 
Sarah A. Smitli, who was born in this townsliip, 
January ;"), 1827, were united in marriage. A 
sketch of her family will be found in the biography 
of Joseph Smith (m anotlier page of tliis Recoku. 
Nine of the ten children that have come to iier 
and our subject are living, namely: Elizabeth, 
Alice, Charlotte, Cora Bell, Thomas D., George E., 
Louis H. and Ida E. (twins), and Edwin AV. 

The lady who liad been the cherished compan- 
ion of our subject for forty-six 3'ears departe<l 
tills life December 11, 1891. She was a most in- 
telligent and lovable lady, whose mind and char- 
acter made her a welcome addition to any circle 
which she frequented. She was. one of those 
capable and enterprising women who found oppor- 
tunity for neighborly deeds of kindness, and bore 
a part in benevolent enterprises and exercised a 
generous hospitality. She was a wise and affec- 
tionate mother and a loving wife, and her demise 
was felt to be a sad loss, not onl}' to her family 
and friends, but to the community at large. She 
was a devoted and faitiiful memlier of tiie Chris- 
tian Church. 

He of whom we write is the owner of a valuable 
estate, comprising two hundred and forty acres of 
land, on which can be seen every indication of 
thorough tillage and judicious improvement. His 
handsome frame residence was erected in 1877, 
and is supi)lied with every convenience and com- 
fort which are desired by people of refined tastes 
and ample means. His barn, which was built in 
1871, is 40x100 feet in dimensions, and gives 
ample accommodation for sheltering cattle and large 
quantities of grain. He is engaged in mixed farm- 
ing, and in the management of his affairs has sliown 
sound judgment, unbounded zeal and an intelli 
gent perception of all that goes to make up good 
farming. He kcejis on his place good grades of all 
kinds of stock, and in that branch of agriculture 
has been very successful. Increasing means has 
not m.ade him less kind and generous than he was 
in earlier days, but, on the contrary, he is noted 
for his hospitality and the liberal support he gives 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



431 



to every good cause. For the past sixteen 3'ears, 
he lias been a member of the Christian Church, 
and is not only earnest in his belief, but con- 
scientious in tlie jjractice of the principles of 
Christian it3'. 

Mr. Van Horn is a Republican in politics, and 
his worldly prosperity docs credit to his ability 
and strength of character, as he began the labors 
of life without means. When his sons left him 
to establish homes of their own, lie gave each of 
them $400 in money or propertj', and to each of 
his daughters $300. Personally, he is of a social 
and entertaining disposition, manifesting in con- 
versation a lively interest in the leading topics of 
the da}', wliether political, financial or social. He 
is well known throughout the county, has the rep- 
utation of a man of strict integrity and enjoys 
the friendship of a large number of his fellow- 
citizens. 






,EV. E. P. EDMONDS, I). D. This name is 
a familiar one throughout the State of 
^'^ \\\ Ohio, as the figure of him who bears it is 
*^P frequently met going about in pursuance 
of the high and holy duties devolving upon a ser- 
vant of the Lord and a shepherd over one of his 
flocks. Rev. Mr. Edmonds is pastor of the First 
Methodist Episcopal Church of Canton, and de- 
votes himself zealously to the work in which he is 
deeply interested, giving his entire time and atten- 
tion to the promotion of the interests of his 
church. 

Nut only does he enter with his whole heart 
into those matters which add to the attractiveness 
and power of the church services, but he is equally 
zealous regarding the societies and other avenues 
by which the cause of Christianity can be pro- 
moted. He is a fluent speaker, pleasing in his 
address upon all occasions, and is a scholarl}' and 
studious gentleman. He has been known as the 
"boy preacher," as he entered the pulpit when in 
his seventeenth year, and for one of his age pos- 



sesses a remarkable knowledge of human nature, 
as well as exceptionally rare ability. 

Born in Somerton, Belmont County, Ohio, Sep- 
tember 12, IS.");'), our subject is the son of Rev. P. 
<;. and Nellie (Long) Edmonds, natives of Ohio 
and Albany, N. Y., respectively. The father was 
a member of the Pittsburgh Conference for a time, 
and after the organization of the East Ohio Con- 
ference he was identified with it. After many 
years spent in the preaching of the Gospel, he has 
retired from active ministerial labors and passes 
the twilight of his honorable life in Alliance, 
Ohio. He is justly proud of the fact that his two 
sons, Edson F. and Eugene P., are both ministers, 
the former being pastor of the First Methodist 
Episcopal Church at Newcastle, Pa. The only 
daughter in the family died at the age of three 
years. 

After obtaining his early education in the public 
schools, our subject took an academic course at 
Daj'ton, Pa., from which he entered the prepara- 
tory department in the Scio (Ohio) College, 
graduating from that institution in the classical 
course in 1873, before he had reached his seven- 
teenth year. As may be imagined, he utilized his 
time diligently and studied during his vacations 
in order to complete the college course while 3et 
so young. 

It had been the intention of the young graduate 
to enter the theological seminary at Boston, but 
his health being poor, he was advised by his phy- 
sicians to take as much outdoor exercise as pos- 
sible, and therefore reluctantly abandoned the idea 
of entering the seminary. The three years follow- 
ing he remained at home, taking instructions under 
his father. He was licensed as a local preacher 
during 1873, and was then known as the " bo}' 
preacher." During the three years following his 
graduation, he supplied several pulpits, and in 
1876, at the first session of the FJast Ohio Confer- 
ence at Steubenviile, Ohio, received supply work 
from the Presiding Elder on the Tyrone Circuit 
(now the Dennison charge). During this period 
he supplied four churches in the country, and this, 
his first experience of rural life, was one of the 
most delightful he had ever enjoyed and proved 
ver\' iirodiictive in revival results. 



432 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



By the recommendation of some of the wisest 
niinistei-s in the church, Rev. Mr. Edmonds refused 
to remain more than one year as pastor of any one 
church, in order that he miglit have an opportunity 
for more thorougli sermonizing and broader study. 
At the end of the first year he was recalled to each 
place by the unanimous request of Quarterly Con- 
ference. Jn the fall of 1876, he went on the 
Tyrone Circuit, and one year later removed to 
Caldwell, Noble County, Ohio, where he was in- 
strumental in securing a verj- interesting meeting, 
as well as the reconstruction of the church, and 
all the interests of the congregation were largely 
advanced. In 1878, he removed to Newton Falls, 
Ohio, where a splendid revival succeeded in 
increasing the membership by one-half. One year 
later, he took charge of tiie church at Garretts- 
ville, Ohio, where he had many trying exi)erienees, 
on account of the fact that the congregation had 
recently erected a new church, for wiiich they were 
in debt. They came to the Akron Conference and 
asked that Mr. Edmonds be appointed their pas- 
tor. His success there was remarkable, and when 
he left he had the gratification of knowing that 
the indebtedness was lifted and general improve- 
ments made. 

In 1880, Rev. Mr. Edmonds moved to Woods- 
field, Monroe Count\', Ohio, where he had a pleas- 
ant and i)Tofi table pastorate of two^'ears. Coming 
to Chagrin Falls in 1882, two weeks after his 
removal he was married to ]Miss Lena M., daugh- 
ter of Col. S. L. Mooney, of Woodsfield, Ohio. 
During his three years' pastorate at Chagrin 
Falls, he built a new church, which is recognized 
as an ornament to the city, and strengthened the 
congregation both nuracricall3- and spirituallv. 
During 1885, he received a unanimous invitation 
from the Scoville Avenue Church at Cleveland, 
and also a call from the OlHcial Board of the 
Hamlin Methodist Episcopal Church at Steuben- 
ville. The latter request was granted by the 
Bishop and he removed to Steubenville, remaining 
for two years. 

Receiving a unanimous call to the Euclid 
Avenue Church in Cleveland, which had recently 
erected a fine stone church in a rapidly growing 
district, he was sent tliitiier. Tiie matter was 



sharply contested between Cleveland and Steuben- 
ville as to which pastorate he siionld accept, but 
the Conference being held at Cleveland, and the 
cabinet seeing the work that must be done in that 
city, decided tliat he should go there. He suc- 
ceeded in paying off the church indebtedness of 
$14,000, and increased tiie membershii) from three 
hundred to seven hundred and twenty. He was 
pastor of this cluirch for four years and was re- 
quested to remain for the fifth year, l)ut unex- 
l)ected changes were made in the Conference 
whicli involved the necessity of changes with pas- 
tors in relation with otlier churches. 

In 1891, Rev. Mr. Edmonds was called to the 
First ]Methodist Church at Canton, where he now 
occupies the pulpit. The church building is an 
elegant stone structure, erected at a cost of 8150,- 
000, and the congregation includes a membership 
of more tlian eleven hundred. The auditor- 
ium is handsomely furnished, and equipped with 
a fine i)ipe organ, the edifice being considered 
one of the most attractive in tiie State. The pas- 
tor is an eloquent speaker, and is known through- 
out the State as one of its best ministers. He is 
an enthusiastic and earnest worker, and his zeal 
and enterprise are praised bj- all who know him. 
He has social relations with the Knights of Pythias 
and is a Mason, ranking as a Knight Templar, 
and is a man of genial and companionable nature. 
He and his wife liave one son, Rowland Mooney. 

Mr. Edmonds lias had many calls to leave his 
Conference and accept more lucrative positions 
elsewliere, but has ahva3'S declined. In 18!)1, the 
degree of Doctor of Divinil\- was conferred upon 
him, and he has the honor of being the youngest 
member of the Conference upon whom that honor 
has been bestowed. His efHcienc}' as a minister is 
due to some extent to his personal social qualities, 
which gain the friendship of those to whom he 
becomes known, and attract to his services many 
who otherwise might not enter the cliurch. His 
character as a true-hearted gentleman and devout 
Christian gives him that infiuence over those who 
know him which is essential to success in Christian 
work. In presenting the claims of the Gospel he 
is clear, logical and persuasive. He receives the 
respect of all who know him, and is best beloved 



PORTRAIT AXD BICGKAPHJCAL RECORD. 



433 



by those who enjoy a close association with him 
and best understand his nature. He has received 
the highest eoiupliraent that could be conferred 
upon him by the Conference, in his apix>intment 
to fill tlie pulpit of the church at Canton, for it is 
considered to be one of the finest in the State. 



^^EORGE H. SPANGLER is .i wholesale and 
|[ g=i retail dealer in hats and gent's furnishing 
^^J goods at Nos. 12 and 14 South Market Street, 
in Canton, where he has carried on business for a 
number of _veai-s. As he is widely and favorably 
known in the community, this record of his life 
will undoubtedly prove of interest to many of our 
i-eaders. Mr. Spangler was born on a farm in 
Stark County. .January 5, 1845. and is a son of 
William A. and Elizabeth (Lind) Spangler. His 
parents were both born near Hagerstown, Md., and 
the father was a farmer by occupation. In 1835, 
he came with his family to this county and located 
upon a farm In Plain Township, where he engaged 
in agricultural pursuits for many years. His death 
occurred on the old homestead in February, 1889, 
in the seventv-third year of his age. His wife 
passed away two years previous, dying in 1887, 
in her seventy-first year. The Spangler and Lind 
families were both of German descent and were es- 
tablished in Maryland at an early da^'. 

We now take up the personal history of our 
subject, who was the fifth in a family of eleven 
children, seven sons and four daughters, nine of 
whom are yet living. No event of special import- 
ance occurred during his boyhoo 1. which was 
s|)ent in attendance at the district schools and in 
aiding in the laboi-s of the farm. He afterward pur- 
sued his studies in Greensburgh .Seminary, and com- 
pleted his education in Mt. Union College, after a 
course of two years. He entered upon his mer- 
cantile career as clerk in the store of David ZoUars, 
with whom he remained for one 3-ear. He was 
then in the emploj- of Schilling A- Herbruck for 



about two years, when he started in business on 
his own account, forming a partnership with David 
Jamison and Abraham ^filler. They opened a 
general store, with which Mr. Spangler was con- 
nected for ten months, when he sold out to his 
partners and returned from Uniontown to Canton. 
A marriage ceremony performed on the 19th of 
April, 1870, united the destinies of our subject 
and Miss ilary A. Knoble. of Upper Sandusky. 
Ohio, daughter of John Knoble. After his mar- 
riage. Mr. Spangler was engaged in clerking for a 
time in Canton, after which he took charge of the 
hat, cap and furnishing-goods department in the 
store of T. B. Albert i Co., of Canton, with which 
he was connected for several years, when failing 
health forced him to sever the relation. Hoping 
to be benefited thereby, Mr. Spangler then ac-cepted 
a position as traveling salesman for the Eagle 
Woolen Mills, of Canton; later was in the employ 
of a New York firm, and subsequent!}- again repre- 
sented the Eagle AVooien Mills and other Western 
factories. Returning to Canton, he purchased the 
stock of T. B. Albert <fc Co.. of which he had form- 
erly been in charge, and started in busine^ for 
himself, having his brother Charles as a partner. 
This connection was continued for four yeai-s. 
when he purchased his brother's interest. 

Unto ilr. and Mi's. Spangler have l>een born 
eight children, but they lost three in infancy. The 
five j-et living are Lucy C, Mar\' A., Florence N.. 
Ruth C. and George N. The family resides at No. 
141 West Fifth Street, where they have a comfort- 
able home with pleasant surroundings, the hospi- 
table doors of wiiich are always open for the recejv 
tion of their manv friends. 

In connection with his main store in Canton 
ilr. Spangler also has a branch store in Massillou. 
Both are well stocked with a fine grade of gcods 
of the latest and most improved styles. Nine 
clerks are employed in the Canton store, and three 
salesmen in the branch store. The former occupies 
a building 46x100 feet, and three stories in height. 
Mr. Spangler has a large and constantly increasing 
trade, which he well deserves. His courteous 
treatment, fair and honest dealing and his fine 
line of goods have won him a liberal patronage and 
have placed him among the prominent business men 



434 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



of the city. Mr. Spangler is also a member of the 
Board of Trade, of Canton, and one of the Board 
of the Business Men's Association. In politics, lie 
is a Republican, and socially, is a member of the 
Knights of Honor and the American Legion of 
Honor. With tiie Methodist Episcopal Church, he 
holds membership and serves as its Treasurer. Mr. 
Spangler had no special advantages in his youth, 
but by his industry and perseverance has worked 
his way upward, overcoming all the obstacles in 
his patli by his indomitable will and energ\^ He 
deserves the greatest credit for his success and his 
pros|)erity is but his just reward. 



-^ 



J'ACKSON W. PONTIUS. This work would 
fail in its idea of placing before its readers 
and patrons iu Stark County the life history 
of its noted men, were we to omit the name 
of Mr. Pontius, wiio occupies the responsible posi- 
tion of Superintendent of the County Infirmary. 
It is impossible in a brief biographical sketch to 
render him full justice, and yet he is so intimately 
and clearly identified with the county's welfare, 
and his name is so familiar to all, that it is only 
proper to dwell upon what he has done and tlie 
influence of his careei- upon others, not as empty 
words of praise, but the plain statement of a plain 
truth. 

Our subject, who was born on section 16 of 
Plain Township, April 17, 1855, is the son of 
Scjuire Andrew Pontius, for a further history of 
whom the reader is referred to his sketcli, which 
appears elsewhere in this book. Reared on a farm, 
our suliject early gained a knowledge of agricul- 
ture, and his education during his early life was 
conducted in the district sciiool, and wlien seven- 
teen years of age he added to the knowledge 
gained therein by attendance at the old Canton 
Academy. Later, he spent three years as a student 
in tlie Mt. Union College, and when leaving that 
institution was in his Sophomore year. Then de- 
sirous of gaining a tliorough knowledge of busi- 



ness, young Pontius entered the commercial de- 
partment of the Mt. Union College, from which 
institution he was graduated with the Class of '75. 
Later, he taught school for four winters in Jack- 
son and Plain Townships, and was variously en- 
gaged during the summer seasons. 

Abandoning the life of a teacher, our subject 
launciicd out in the hai'dware business in Canton 
in partnership with a Mr. Essig, the firm prosecut- 
ing their affairs for two and a half yeais under the 
style of Essig A Pontius. At the expiration of 
that time, our subject returned to the old home 
farm, which he carried on very advantageously for 
three years. 

The marriage of our sul^ject with Miss Ella Claj- 
was solemnized May 9, 1876. Mrs. Pontius was 
the daughter of Moses and Catharine Clay, the 
former of whom was one of the old landmarks of 
Jackson Township, and whose life histoiy occupies 
another page in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Pontius have been born three children: Hubeit 
C, Bessie S. and Lura Belle. 

The fellow-citizens of Mr. Pontius, appreciating 
the fact tliat he is a man of great merit, worthy in 
every way of their consideration, and knowing 
that he is shrewd, capable and clear-witted in 
counsel, selected him to fill the office of Superin- 
tendent of tlie County InHrmary, which position 
he took charge of March 26, 1884. Under his 
supervision, the institution has been entirely re- 
organized and a new brick building has been 
erected as the insane department. He has fully 
demonstrated the fact that he is the man for that 
position, and although not ambitious as tlie world 
knows ambition, yet he is untiring in his devotion 
to all matters which pertain to the Infirmary and 
the public good in general. He h.as always pre- 
served a quiet, unassuming and modest deport- 
ment, and has worked for results, rather than per- 
sonal aggrandizement or glory. 

The grounds belonging to the County Infirmary 
contain two hundred and tliirty-four acres of till- 
able land, on which are raised all varieties of farm 
produce. The inmates of that institution numl)er 
from one hundred and ninety-five to two hundred 
and twenty-five, and for them Mr. Pontius makes 
the home as pleasant as possible. The insane depart- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



435 



ment contains fift\'-seven people, wliose wants are 
attended to promptly. The Infirmary was organ- 
ized in 183.5, and as there is no free hospital 
within the limits of Stark County, all cases of sick 
poor people are accommodated within its walls, the 
number of such cases since September 1, 1891, be- 
ing two hundred and thirty. 

Mr. and Mrs. Pontius are members of the Trinity 
Lutheran Church, in Canton, and are people who 
try to carry out in their daily life the teachings of 
the Golden Rule. In iiis political relations, our 
subject is a standi Democrat, and takes an active 
part in all local affairs. Socially, he occupies a 
high rank in tiie Independent Order of Odd Fel- 
lows in Canton. While he has not amassed a for- 
tune or attained great distinction, as the world 
usually measures men, he has done what is more 
in keeping with his character — been a cheerful 
giver, an earnest worker for his fellows, and 
already enjoys the reward of his good works, b}' 
securing the iinboundefl coiilideiice of his fellow- 
citizens. 



<! jfelLLIAM HERSHEY. The vast agriciil- 
\/iJ// ^'"'^^ resources of the I'nited States en- 
\^/y/ able thousands of men to gain a mainten- 
ance and secure a competence by tilling the soil. 
Stark County is not without her share of these 
enterprising workers, and among those in Canton 
Township who own and occupy excellent estates 
is tlie gentleman above named, who is numbered 
among the successful men of the county. His 
property is well improved and tiie owner not only 
raises the cereals for which this portion of the 
State is so well adajjted, but also devotes consider- 
able attention to the various domestic animals, 
breeding them in considerable numbers. 

The father of our subject, .loseph Hershey, was 
born in Pennsylvania in 1809, where he was reared 
to manhood and learned the distiller's trade from 
his father, the latter of whom also owned two 
fiiiins ill the Keystone State. Later, the father of 



our subject became a tanner, in which branch of 
business he was very successful. After his mar- 
riage, he came, in ISS,"), to this county, making the 
journey over the mountains with a team and 
wagon, and located in Canton, which was then a 
small village. He engaged in the butchering bus- 
iness at that place for a j'ear or two and in 1837 
moved upon a farm which his father-in-law had 
inirchascd in Canton Township. The only im- 
provements which the place bore were a few acres 
cleared and an old log house and barn. He mate- 
rially contributed to the growth of Stark County, 
and throughout his community was respected for 
his upright life and friendly disposition. He con- 
tinued to reside upon the above farm, with the ex- 
ception of three years spent at the tanner's trade 
at Massillon, until a few years prior to his death, 
when he removed to Canton and there died at the 
advanced age of seventy-one years. 

Our subject's mother, whose maiden name was 
Lucy Brownewell, was born in Pennsylvania, 
and reared a family of five children: George, de- 
ceased; John, Rebecca, William, and .Joseph. The 
wife and mother, who was a most estimable lady, 
departed this life in 1846, and was mourned by 
many outside her family circle. The subject of 
this sketch grew to manhood in the place of his 
birth and from early bo.yhood was engaged in 
farming, so that when he adopted that calling for 
his life work he had already a good deal of ex- 
perience and a practical preparation for the task 
that lay before him. His education was conducted 
in the pioneer school, which did not offer many 
advantages to the youth of that day, but he has 
endeavored by reading and observation to keep 
himself well posted and possesses much valuable 
information. He was twenty-three j'ears of age 
on the outbreak of the late war and in April, 1801, 
enlisted in Company F, Fourth Ohio Infantry, 
under Capt. Wallace, and participated in the bat- 
tles of Ciiancellorsville, Ridge Mountain, Gettys- 
burg, the Wilderness and Spottsylvania. At the 
latter place he was wounded and received his hon- 
orable discharge in July, 1864. 

Returning home from the field of battle, 3'oung 
Hershey again engaged in farming and in 1877 
purchased his present f.-uiii, wiiich includes sixty 



4.3G 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



acres of land iimk'!- excellent cultivation and its 
improvements are of a very high order. May 1, 
1H()(>, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary 
Kinney, .ind to them have been born five children: 
Alice. Isaac, Joseph, Lucy, and James Garfield. 
Mr. Ilershey is one of our so-called self-made men 
as he has acquired his proi)erty solely by liard 
work and frugal management. He devotes his 
attention to mixed farming and stands well among 
his fellow-citizens, as his reputation for honest^' 
and fairness in all his dealings is the best. Relig- 
iously he is a member in good standing of the 
Methodist Church and is a whole-souled, true- 
lieurted Christian. In politics, he gives allegiance 
to the Hepublican party and always stands by his 
colors. 



^ 



\Tr^EnREN IIOLL. Among the retired plant- 
pSfT ers of Stark County, none have been more 
(^ \\i tiioronghlj- wide-awake and energetic than 
INIr. IIoU, who has resided here since 1836. 
Although he started out in life with no capital 
save that with which Nature had endowed him, 
pluck and energy were his faithful allies, and by 
their aid he accumulated a comfortable fortune, 
and is now in the enjoyment of a hale and vigor- 
ous old age. 

A native of Lancaster County, Pa., Mr. IIoll 
w.as born November 1.5, 182.3. His parents, .Sam- 
uel and Mary (Hoyer) IIoll, were born in Penn- 
sylvania, March 11, 1798, and July 4, 1801, respect- 
ively, and in the Slate of their birth were united 
in marriage. In the spring of 1836, the father 
came to Stark County, Ohio, and there he was 
called from life in February, 1866. His father, 
l':phraim IIoll, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., 
and died at about the age of thirty-six years, hav- 
ing l)een a farmer during his short but active life. 
His father, .John Peter Moll, was a Pennsylvanian I 
l)y birth and of (ierman descent, and by occupation 
was a farmer and pump-maker. The maternal 
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, Kphraim 



Royer, spent his life in Pennsylvania, where he 
followed the calling of a farmer. His ancestors 
came to America during the early settlement of 
the country and the land whereon they located 
was purchased from Thomas and Richard Penn, 
sons of William Penn, and the place where they 
forded the .Schuylkill River is to this day called 
Royer's Ford and is now a station on the Philadel- 
phia i: Reading Railroad. 

The mother of Reuben IIoll lived to be ninety 
years, six months and twenty-eight da^'S old, dying 
January 30, 1892. She bore her husband eight 
sons and six daughters, one of whom died in early 
infancy, another at the age of two and a half 
years, one at thirteen and another at fifteen 
j'ears of age. Ten grew to maturity-: Kphraim, 
who died in 1818 and left two sons; Magdaina, 
a resident of Canton, Ohio, and the widow of 
.lacob Sprankel; Reuben, the subject of this 
sketch; Catherine, wife of Samuel llower, of San- 
gamon County, 111.; Dan R., of Mexico, Stark 
Count}-, Ohio; Manasseh, who lives in this county 
and has a family of eleven children, all married; 
Elizabeth (deceased); .Sophia, wife of Samuel 
Walter, of New Rerlin,01iio; Samuel and Henry 
C, of Canton. 

Reuben IIoll has been a resident of this county 
since his thirteenth year. His first schooling was 
obtained in a village of Pennsylvania; after his 
removal to Ohio he attended the common schools 
of New Berlin, and finished his literary education 
in a select school taught by Archibald McGregor 
in Canton, after he was twenty-one years of age. 
He was then sufficiently well qualified to begin 
teaching and this occupation received his atten- 
tion for sixteen successive winter terms and two 
summer terms. As in everything else he under- 
took, he was successful and was considered one of 
the pojuilar educators of the county for many 
years. His marriage, March 9, 1848, united him 
with Eliza Roush, daughter of Godfrey Roush. The 
•lady w.is born in Jackson Towiishij), Stark County, 
December 28, 1826, and died August 18, 1890. 
She was the mother of eight sons and one daugh- 
ter. Three of the sons died in infancy, but the 
others attained m.-inliood. William P. iiiarrie<l 
Alice A. Clay :iii(l bv licr he li;is tluvc sons and one 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



437 



daughter; John H., a civil engineer of Canton 
married Clara Essig, bj' whom he has a daughter 
and two sons; Daniel W. is unmarried; Oliver W. 
is the County 8urve3'or of Stark County, and was 
married to Alice Essig, by whom he has one daugh- 
ter; lienjamiii F., of Pittsburg, Pa., is an artist by 
profession and is married to Ida Van Horn; 
and Maiy, wife of .]. J. Zerbe, of Canton, is the 
mother of two children. 

After his marriage, ^Mr. Iloll located in New 
Berlin, but at the end of two years settled on a 
farm in Jackson Township, where he at once be- 
gan devoting his time and energies to agricultural 
pursuits and stock-raising. Eight years later, he 
purchased the property on section 23, of which he 
is still the owner. Here he tilled the soil for 
tiiirty-two years and by constant labor converted 
what was then comparatively wild land into well- 
tilled fields and made most of the improvements 
in the way of buildings, etc. After the death of 
his wife, he kept house until the following spring 
but now makes his home with bis children. He 
has alwa3's been a Democrat in politics and has 
served nine terms, or twentv-scvcn years, as Jus- 
tice of the Peace of Jackson Township and was 
land appraiser of the same in 1859 and in 1880. 
He has done a great deal of surveying in the 
township and for many j'ears was its cfHcient 
clerk. He is not a member of any church but is a 
moral, upright man and his walk through life has 
been without reproach. He is a member of the 
Grange and has been Master of his lodge. 



Ik 



EOXAKD IIF.SS, a member of the firm of 
(?2^, Hess, Snyder A- Co., and superintendent of 
the stove erecting department, is not only 
one of the prominent business men of the i>lace, 
but is one of the county's most agreeable and so- 
cial citizens. (For sketch of his father, Jacob F. 
Hess, see sketch of his brother, J. F. Hess). Our 
subject was born in Kandern, Piadon, Germany, on 
the 22d of Novemlicr. IHIO. ;unl came licit' with 



his parents when six years of age. He was the 
youngest of five children, but as his parents re- 
moved to different school districts after lo- 
cating in Stark County, his school d.ays numbered 
about eighteen months altogether. He was natur- 
ally bright and ambitions, readily acquired a knowl- 
edge of the English language, and became well 
l)Osted on all subjects of moment. 

When thirteen years of age, he began earning his 
own living, and was with Hon. Geoi-ge Harsh for 
one year. After this he worked for Joseph Daven- 
port in the car works for three years, and then 
was with Russell & Co. for eleven years. During 
this time he took up the machinist's trade, and be- 
ing a natural mechanic and genius, he became fore- 
man the last two years of his stay with that com- 
pany. He became a practical machinist, and in 
186.3 he became a partner with his brother J. F., 
and opened a tin shop and gas and plumbing busi- 
ness. Our subject had charge of the gas-fitting 
and plumbing in connection with stoves and 
house-furnishing goods, and this continued until 
1882. The comjjanj- built a block, but our subject 
sold his interest in it, and in 1881 started business 
under the firm name of Hess Bros., the same con- 
tiiKiing for two years. They then embarked in 
their present business, and Mr. Hess took charge 
of the machinist department. This business has 
increased in a remarkable manner since its incep- 
tion, and they carry on the manufacture of hot- 
air furnaces, cook and heating stoves, and also a 
machine and repair shop. They turn out from 
eighteen hundred to two thousand stoves a year, 
and three hundred furnaces, and are doing a very 
extensive business in this line. Mr. Hess owns two 
good farms in Perry Township, one of one hun- 
dred and fifty acres, and the other of forty-eight 
acres, both near town. He has good buildings on 
his land, and carries on agricultural pursuits him- 
self, raising grain and stock. He also owns an at- 
tractive residence in MassiIlon,as well as other real 
estate in the city. He is a self-made man, and all 
that he has accumulated in llie way of this world's 
goods has been the resnit of honest toil on his 
part. 

Our s\ibj('cl selected his wife in the person of 
Miss Christina Sluiver. a native of Massjllon, and 



438 



roRTRAir AM) i;i(K;KArmcAL record. 



llieii- iui|itial!i wore celebrated on llif l.')tli i)f Feb- 
I'lmi y, IS62. Her father, Ilennan Slniver, was an 
earlv settler here, and one of tlie most extensive 
farniei-!. of tliis section. Fonr children liave hlessed 
the union of our subject and liis wife, and are 
as follows: Fred, a book-keeper in tlieollice; Clara, 
now Mi-s. Clans, who resides with liei father; 
I. aura and Robert at lionie. These children are all 
well educated, and are britrht and entei prising. 
Mr. Iless has been a nienil)er of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows fur tweutv-two years, and 
in politics, is a stanch advocate of the Rei)ublican 
party. 



m^^^<m=^ 



(,»riRK ANDUKW PoNTll S. Thisgentle- 
^ man is, perhaps, as well acquauited with 
^i/i J ^''*^ ijrowth and development of Stark 
County as any man now living. He w.is 
l«)rn in Plain Township, this county, August 22, 
l^2".t, and has spent his entire life in this section. 
Tlic experiences of his early days, the primitive 
life, toils and hardslii|)S of the settlers, and the 
undeveloped state of the country are recalled 
by hini and relate<l in an interesting manner. Mis 
own life has not been devoid of toil, danger and 
excitement, and he has found many wj»ys in which 
to be of great use to his community. As a public 
ollicial. he has made a record and exerted an iii- 
lluence that extends far beyond his own home. 

.lacob Pontius, the father of our subject, was 
born in Pennsylvania, in 1802, where also his fa- 
ther, Frederick Pontius, was born, .July 4. 1772. 
The family is of (Jerman descent, the great-grand- 
father of our subject having come from Zwei- 
brucken, a eity of Bavaria, and located in Penn- 
sylvania. He lived on the frontier of that State, 
and during the Revolutionary "War fought in that 
struggle, and often b;trricaded the entrance to his 
home against the enemy. The grandfather, who 
was then a small boy, together with his brother, 
stationed themselves on the slump of a large butter- 
nut tree and did picket duty, watching the Indians. 



Frederick Pontius was a farmer by occupation in 
Pennsylvania, where he was married, and in 1816 
made the trip overland to this county, his wife 
riding on horseback. They arrived in Canton 
June ."}, of that year, where they found only a few 
log cabins. The caravan of emigrant*; included 
three or four families, and the inhabitants of Can- 
ton were so overjoj-ed to see this addition to their 
little settlement, that they fired a salute in their 
honor. (Grandfather Pontius took up his alwde 
cm the .southeast quarter of section Iti, in Plain 
Township, which was school land. Having pur- 
chiised a three-years lease of the place from the man 
who was living on it at that time, he resided there 
until removing to the northeast (juarter of section 
28, which was entirely devi)id of improvement. 
Having visited this county in 1811, he had pur- 
chased that farm, but was prevented from moving 
hither on account of the outbreak of the War of 
1812. He was drafted into the army, and while 
en route to the Meld of battle w.as overtaken by a 
nephew, who volunteered to .act as his substitute. 

The grandfather of our subject developed a 
good farm on section 28, on which he erected what 
was then considered a very fine hewed-log house, 
which lasted for many years. He was a very hard 
worker and was very pros|)erous in the pursuit of 
his calling and had the reputation of being one of 
the most pr.ictical farmers in the township. He 
died .July 18, 1848, firm in the faith of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church, wl-ich he helped to organ- 
ize in Canton. In his political views, he was a 
sound Democrat and w.as held in high esteem 
throughout the county by reason of his industri- 
ous and kindly life and the interest he ever took 
in the good of those about him. 

.lacob Pontius, the father of our subject, was a 
lad of fourteen years when he accompanied his 
parents on their removal to this county, where he 
was given fair educational advaiitage>. When 
reaching mature yeai-s, he acce|)ted the honorable 
lK)sition of Captain of a com|)any of militia, in 
which he did etHcient service. In 1825. he was 
married t(.) Miss Rebecca F^ssig, who w.as born in 
Cumberland County, Pa., Mfiy 7, 18(t(;. and was 
Ijiought to this county when two yeai-s of age by 
her parents. She now makes her home with our 



I'OIMRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



439 



siihjfct ami is oiii; of tlic oldest residents of SUirk 
C'omity. llcr iiarciits, Siiiicoii and Majfcialena 
KssifT, caiiie lioie at an early day, and locatin;^ in 
this township, on the middle hraneli of Niniishillen 
Creek, there developed a valuable farm in the 
wilderness. They were often disturbed in tiioir for- 
est hf)me by the visits of Indians, wlio came to their 
cabin tradin<( and be<;<j:ing, but were never harmed 
by them other than to be badly frightened. The 
father died at the advanced ag^ of ninety-seven 
years. After his marriage, the father of our sul)- 
ject located on the old homc! faim, which he oper- 
ated successfully until his decease in 1H32. 

The original of this sketch was the second in 
order of birth of the parental family of three 
children, his brotluM' and sister lieing .lolui and 
Margaret, the latter of whom married .Jacob liaii'. 
llc.reccived his schooling in the primitive struc- 
tures which were so common a half-century ago, and 
the lirst schoolhoiise in which he studied had 
neither iron nor glass used in its construction. 
Ili.s father dying when lie was live years of age, 
he made his home with his grandfather until the 
hitter's death. During the winter of 18)8, he 
taught one term of school in Canton and fi>llowed 
that occupation for some time in this township. 

When reaching his majority, Mr. Pontius estab- 
lished a home of his oviu, and May 22, 18.5.'), was 
uniUid in marriage with Miss Sarah ,J. Correll, who 
was born in Adams County, Pa., March 30, 1828. 
She was only six years of age when she came with 
her parents to this section, they locating on the 
southwest (piarter of section 1.0, in this township. 
To our subject and his estimable wife has been 
granted a family of seven children: Loran W., 
.Fackson W.. (ilancy C, Lucy M., Charles A., Will- 
iam J., and Rebecca K. The eldest .son, who was 
graduated from Rush Medical College with the Class 
of '81, is an invalid and resides with his father. 
His wife, who is a most cultured and intelligent 
lady, is also a physician, receiving her degree of 
Doctor of Medicine from the Columbus College at 
Cleveland. She has been very successful in the 
practice of her jjrofession and is known far and 
wide for her skill and business al)ilitv. Jackson 
W^. occupies the prominent position of .Superin- 
tendent of the County Infirmary, and fJl.ancy C. 



is a wealthy farmer in Plain Township. i>ucy M. 
married Morris Aungst, who is Deputy Probate 
.hidge of Stark County. Charles A. and William 
.). are twins. The former makers hi.s li<jme in this 
township, and the latter is married and farming in 
this county. Rebecca remains at home with her 
parents. 

Mr. Pontius of this sketch located upon his 
farm on section 16, where he was a c(Mitinuous 
resident for thirty years. The tract includes eighty 
acres, of which he is still the owner, and he has 
supi)lied the place with all the needed implements 
for farm work and has the repuUition of being 
one of the most progressive and skillful farmers 
of the county. In the year 1879, he purcluised 
th(! place where he is at present residing,and in the 
spring of 1881 moved upon the fai'm. It com- 
prises one hundr(!d and forty-four broad acres 
of thoroughly tilled land, which is sup[)lied with 
good buildings and all modern farm machinery. 
He is a man of excellent common-sense, is sagacious 
and wide-awak(! in the trans.action of business, and 
has aeipiired a handsome competence by his indus- 
try. He has taken the first premium at county 
fairs on nearly every product of his farm which 
he has exhibited. He was elected President of the 
County Agricultural Society at a time when it 
was heavily involved, anrl during his four years' 
incumbency of the oHice managed affairs so wisely 
that he cleared the entire indebtedness. He was 
also instrumental in the reorganization of the 
Hoard, of which he is an active inember,and is also 
a charter member of the Horticultural Society. 
At the Ohio Centennial of 1888, which was held at 
Columbus, Mr. Pontius conceived the idea of hav- 
ing the pictures of all the sch<joliiouses in I'lain 
Township (ilaoed on exhiliition, which was carried 
into effect. 

The original of this sketch wa.s elected .lustice 
of the Peace in 1855, and served for fifteen con- 
secutive years. He made a most excellent "Squire" 
and it was generally conceded that he carefully 
weighed the evidence and judiciously decided all 
wises brought before him. With his wife, lie is an 
inlluential member of the Trinity Lutheran Church 
at Canton and is President of the Hoard of Ti uslces 
of that body. He is also a nicmbei of the Grange, 



440 



PORTRAIT A^•D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



in which organization he holds the office of Lec- 
turer. In his political S3-mpathy and affiliation, he 
is a Democrat, and in all official stations to which 
he has been elected he has administered affairs in 
a wa3' tliat would tend to the best interests of the 
citizens. He has been successful as an agriculturist 
and is a man of unimpeachable integrity, wliose 
word in ail business affairs is considered as good 
as his bond. 






,lr^^EUBKN DECKAKD. The farming iiiter- 
'lt#*r ests of Canton Township are carried on b_v 
Ji \V an active, intelligent class of men, who are 
^^©tluis perfoiming their share in maintain- 
ing and extending the agricultural interests of 
Stark County. Among them is the gentleman 
whose name is at the head of this sketch, and who 
is a member of one of the old pioneer families of 
this section. 

A native of this county, ^Ir. Deckard was born 
on what is now liis present farm, October 16, 1850. 
He is a son of Daniel Deckard, who was born in 
Pennsylvania, in 1797, and was of Germ.au de- 
scent. The father followed the trade of a dis- 
tiller in his native State, and came to Ohio in 1818 
when a young man, driving a four-horse team 
here for a Mr. IMiller. On taking up his abode in 
this section, he again engaged in his former busi- 
ness, and a few years later, desiring to become a 
farmer, purchased forty acres of the farm on which 
his son is now located. There was a log house on 
the place and deer and all kinds of wild animals 
roamed the prairies. At his death, he left an estate of 
one hundred and ninet3- acres in Canton Township 
and a quarter-section of land near Ft. Wayne, Ind., 
both of which bore all llie improvements to be 
found upon a first-class estate. He began the bat- 
tle of life with limited means, iiaving only euougli 
money when coming to tliis country with which to 
purchase a mattox, and with this he began to grub 
stumps for his neighbors. In the prosecution 
of his business affairs, he was accorded the credit 



of being a very pleasant man with whom to deal 
and who was honorable in all his transactions. In 
his i)oiitical belief, he was a member of the Re- 
puiilican party, and during his life here contrib- 
uted his quota to advance the best interests of his 
township. 

The mother of our subject, previous to her 
marri.age, bore the name of Catherine Brown. 
She was born in Berks County-, Pa., in 1808, and 
was thus twelve yearsof age when she accompanied 
her parents to this countjMn 1820. By her mar- 
ri.ige with Mr. Deckard were born twelve children, 
of whom the following grew to mature years: 
Rebecca. John, Amos, Daniel, Delilah, Jane, Reu- 
ben, Joseph, and Hannah. The mother of these 
children died in her seventy-fourth year, in 1882. 
She was the daughter of Balser Brown, who was 
born in Pennsylvania and w.as a shoemaker by 
trade. He was very prosperous in a business way 
and died in liiis county when in the prime of 
life. 

He of whom we write obtained his first sciiool- 
ing in the log schoolhouses of pioneer times. He 
was twenty-two j-ears of age wlien he began life 
on his own account, and took charge of the home 
farm on condition that he could bu}' out the other 
heirs. January 12, 1873, he was married to IMiss 
Sarah A. Snivcly, who was born in Perry Town- 
ship, this county, in 1850. Of the three children 
born to them one is deceased, Clarence L. Those 
living are Linnie A. and John D. 

Mr. Deckard has achieved success in the pursuit 
of his calling, and is now the proud possessor of 
one hundred and thirty-three acres of land, which 
is as valuable and productive as can be found in 
tlie county. His estate is neatly fenced and is 
stocked with good grades of cattle and horses. He 
carries on mixed farming, and in him the citizen- 
ship of his town has a good representative, as he 
is in all tilings a thoroughly honorable man, just 
and generous in iiis dealings, and in every respect 
eminently trustworthy. Among the good build- 
ings on his estate is a commodious frame house 
and large I)arns which give ample accommodation 
for the shelter of crops, stock and maciiinerj'. 

Jlrs. Deckard is a member of the United Brethren 
Church; slie is a most estimable lady and looks 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



443 



carefully after tlie interests of ber household. Mr. 
Deekard has views of his own on all sul)ject8, and 
is a pronounced Republican in political sentiment. 
He is accorded a high place among our most wortlij' 
and respected citizens, and is widely and favorably 
known throughout this county. For a more ex- 
tended notice of his ancestral history, the reader 
is referred to the sketch of his brother, John 
Deekard, which api)ears on another page in this 
volume. 



i.EV. WILLIAM O. SIFFERT, p.aslor of the 
ir United Brethren Church at Massillon, 
was born at Navarre, this State, March 
'^26, 1845. Joseph Siffert, his father, is 
also a native of this county, while the grand- 
father, Philli]) Siffert, was born in Westmoreland 
County, Pa., and was a miller by occupation. The 
last-named gentleman was married in the Keystone 
State, and in 1812 came by means of a wagon to 
this county and located in Pike Township, where, 
in addition to operating a farm, he I'an a mill. He 
was vevy successful in business and at his death, 
in 1855, left several valuable fai'ms. 

The father of our subject was reared to man- 
hood in this county, and having chosen the occu- 
pation of a farmer, purchased a quarter-section of 
land in Sugar Creek Township, which he operated 
until 1864, when he moved to Navarre, and died 
in that place in 1877. He was a very prominent 
and influential member of the United Brethren 
Church, and in his political views voted with the 
Republican party. The lady whom he married 
was formerly Catherine A. Scott, a native of Cum- 
berland County, Pa., being born in 1821. Her 
father, Andrew Scott, was a native of the North 
of Ireland and of Scotch-Irisli descent. He was a 
young man when he came to America and located 
in Pennsylvania, where he married. In 1834, he 
came overland witli liis family to tiiis State and 
took up his abode in Perry Township. Later, 

22 



however, he removed to Kendall, where he was 
given the position of Manager of the Massillon 
Furnace Company, which position he held for 
many years. His last days were spent upon a 
farm in Perry Township. His wife, Eliza Walters, 
was born in the Keystone State and was of Ger- 
man descent. Tliej' were both Episcopalians in 
religion. 

He whose name heads this sketch was the eldest 
but one in the family of four children. His brother 
Alfred enlisted in the LTnion army as a member of 
Company I, Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, and was 
killed at Arkansas Post, January 11, 1863. Will- 
iam O. was reared in Sugar Creek Township, his 
home being just two miles from Navarre, and 
prosecuted his studies diligenth' in the primitive 
log schoolhouse. 

]Mr. Siffert remained at home until August 10, 
1862, when he enlisted in the war of the Union, 
joining Company A, One Hundred and Seventh 
Ohio Infantry, being mustered into service at 
Cleveland. He participated in the battles at 
Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, after which he, 
with his regiment, was sent to South Carolina and 
Florida, where he took part in some twenty-five 
or thirtj' engagements with the enemy. He was 
one of the j-oungest members of his company and 
won his way into the hearts of the ofticers and 
privates. He was slightly wounded at the battle 
of Gettysburg, but, with that exception, escaped 
serious injury of any kind. LTpon the close of the 
war, Mr. Siffert was mustered out at Chaileston, 
July 10, 1865, as Corporal, and was discharged at 
Cleveland in August of that year. 

Returning again to the peaceful pursuits of life, 
our subject engaged in the milling business in 
partnership with James M. Corl, and the}' oper- 
ated successfully together for about five years, dur- 
ing which time young Siffert was preparing him- 
self for the rainistr}'. After completing his studies, 
he was licensed to preach by the Quarterly Con- 
ference of the United Brethren Church, January 
23, 1875, and four years later was ordained by the 
Annual Conference and was given charge of the 
church at East Palestine. Fi-om there he preached 
at Holland, Springfield and New Kumle}', and in 
1882 was ordained Elder by Bishop Dickson, His 



444 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



next charge was at New Comerstown, where he re- 
mained until the fall of 1888, when he came to 
this cit3^ After a residence here of two j'ears, he 
went to Louisville, this county, and fifteen months 
later was recalled to Massillon. 

The Rev. AVilliaui O. Siffert w.is married in 
1867 to Miss Hattic, daughter of Jacob Carl, a 
tailor of Navarre. To them have been born seven 
children, namely: .James A., Ada, Carrie, Frank, 
Kittle, P^dwin and Ruth. Our subject is a mem- 
ber of Capt. Samuel Miller's Post No. 240, G. A. R., 
and in politics, votes the straight Republican 
ticket. During the winter of 1891-92, he held 
one of the largest revival meetings in the State, 
during which time he had one hundred and seven 
accessions to tiie church. He labored hard and 
earnestly during that time, after which he was 
taken seriously ill with congestion of the bowels. 
He is devoting his life to the salvation of others, 
and in his chosen field has been greatly prospered. 
Not only is he highl3- esteemed by those of his 
own church, but his name is a synon3-m for integ- 
rity and probity wherever it is known. 



-^^+^1 



/^ HARLES E. ARCHER. The enormous in- 
(li ^ crease in the demand for carriages of all 
^^< grades has rendered their manufacture a 
prominent industry in the United States. There 
arc few branches of industrial trades in which such 
a vast amount of capital has been invested, and 
none other in which the American man ufacturer 
has b_v his skill and ingenuity so far outstripped 
his competitors. Among the most widely known 
and deservedly popular concerns, whose productions 
are in constant and ever-increasing demand, is 
that conducted b)' Mr. Charles E. Archer, who is 
one of the most extensive manufacturers and 
dealers in this section. He w.is Iwrn in Massillon 
on the 28th of January, 1851, and is a son of 
George and Jane (Clark) Archer, the father a 
native of Stark County and the mother of Penn- 
sylv.inia. Our subject's parental grandfather, 



William Archer, was born in the East, and was a 
farmer b_v occupation. At an early date he moved 
to Portage County, Ohio, and followed agricul- 
tural pursuits there until his death. The mater- 
nal grandfather, John Clark, was a gunsmith by 
trade. 

The father of our subject was reared in Portage 
County, Ohio, but later came to Stark County, 
this State, and here learned the carriage manufac- 
turer's trade. After this, he worked for a Mr. 
Hine for a short time and then for Russell it Co. 
for twenty years, as contracting foreman for wagon 
works. Later, he and Mr. Doxsee started a car- 
riage manufactury on Factory Street. "While with 
Russell tV Co.. he bought forty acres of land, im- 
proved this, but during the latter part of his life 
he returned to the carriage business and received his 
final summons in 1885, when sixtv-seven veai-s of 
age. I n politics, he was a Republican. His wife 
died in 1853. They were the parents of three 
children, all of whom reached mature years, viz: 
our subject; William, now in New Mexico; and 
Elmira, deceased. AVilliam was in the Thirty- 
second Ohio Infantry and served through almost 
the entire war. 

Charles E. Archer was reared in Massillon and 
graduated at the High Schools of that city in 1869. 
He learned tiie carriage-making trade of his 
father, and worked with him for three years, 
after which he went to Cleveland, where he re- 
mained one year. Returning to M.issillon at the 
end of that time, he embarked as a dealer in carriages 
and from that soon began their manufacture. In 
1877, he started his present business .and erected 
his works at the corner of Charles and Hill Streets. 
He has a four-story building, 66x70 feet, and has 
lately erected an L. In the b.asement, iron work and 
wood work are turned out; on the second floor the 
carriages are mounted; painting and trimming arc 
done on the third floor, and on the fourth floor 
they are stored. He builds about one hundred 
buggies per year and does the largest business 
here. He is thoroughly familiar with every de- 
tail of his work and is one of the foremost busi- 
ness men. He has a good residence in this city 
and is as popular in social as in business circles. 
He was married in Pittsfield, Lorain County, Ohio, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



445 



in 1873. to Miss Alm.a E. AViiitney, a native of 
Pitlstieki, and the daughter of .Silas D. Whitne\-. a 
prominent farmer there. Mr. and Mrs. Archer 
have tiiree interesting children: G. Sil.is, E. Jane, 
and Edniimd. Mr. Archer is a member of the 
Carriage Manuf.icturing Association, and is inter- 
ested in otiier enterprises. In religion, he is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, and in poli- 
tics, is a Republican. 



■^I OHN S. BIXLER. Our subject h.as not only 
been a witness of the gradual growth of 
Stark County from a sparsely inhabited 
wilderness to a populous and well-developed 
agricuUur.il region, but it may be his pride that he 
hits helped to bring about the great transformation. 
In him we find an excellent example for vouug men 
just embarking in the field of .active life to fol- 
low, as showing what may be accomplished by a 
man beginning poor but honest, prudent and in- 
dustrious. 

He of whom we write is at present residing on a 
good estate in Bethlehem Township, which he is 
cultivating to the best advantage. He is a native 
of this county, having been born July 28, 1820, to 
Samuel and Elizabeth Bixler, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania. The father of our subject emigrated when 
a j'oung man to this county with his parents, with 
whom he resided until establishing a home of his 
own. He occupied a prominent place among the 
agriculturists of this section, where lie made his 
home until his decease, which occurred in Novem- 
ber, 1884. Of the parental family, tlie following 
survive: John S., Balser. David. Jacob, Andrew, 
Susan Anne, and Lovina. 

Mr. Bixlei' of tliis sketch has done much pioneer 
work in this county, and .assisted in developing 
the farm where he is at present residing. In early 
life he enjoyed but few advantages, his school 
days being limited, nor iiad he wealth or position 
to aid him in starting in life. He relied solely 
upon his own efforts and his own conduct to win 



for him success and has ever strictly observed that 
important factor in the successful public and busi- 
ness life of any one— honesty. 

Miss Hannah Mcintosh, of tiiis county, became 
the wife of our subject in 1848, and to them have 
been born three children, two of whom are living: 
Elizabeth and Peter. Mi'. Bixler owns two hun- 
dred and seven acres of excellent land, which, by 
untiring industry and indefatigable labor he has 
placed under good tillage, and has been enabled to 
lay the foundation of a competeucj' which will 
remove the necessity of further labor, when such 
shall become too great a burden. 

A member of the Dunkard Church, our subject 
h.as been a liberal contributor toward its support. 
His fellow-citizens, appreciating the fact that he is 
in eveiy wiiy worthy of their consideration, have 
frequently selected him to fill some public position, 
and for a number of terms he served acceptably as 
School Director. He is not confined to any polit- 
ical party but reserves the right to vote for the 
man whom he considers will best fill the office. 



'JIJOSIAH LKSII, the proprietor of the Lesh 
House, and a well-known groceryman of 
^^^, I Louisville, Oliio, comes of a prominent old 
^5^^ family of lliis section, the members of whicii 
are well known for their sterling integrity, indus- 
try and public spirit. The family have been resi- 
dents of America for several generations back, 
coming tliither from Germany in the very early 
history of this country. Josiah Lesh was born on 
a farm in Stark County, Ohio, February 17. 1846, 
a son of Jacob and Polly (Reese) Lesh, both of 
whom were born in Stark County, the former 
April (j. 1812. The paternal grandfather came to 
this region from Pennsylvania. 

Josiah Lesh received such advantages .as are 
usually given the farmer's boy; that is, he attended 
the common scliools near his Iionie and learned 
the details of farming on the old homestead, At 



446 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



the age of twenty-one years, or June 29, 1869, he 
was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Oberlin, 
of Stark County, but a native of the Keystone 
State. This union resulted in the hirth of five chil- 
dren, four of whom arc still living. 

After his marriage, ;Mr. Lesh removed to a 
farm in Plain Township, which he rented for 
twelve years, also following threshing for seven 
years and was engaged in liauling coal, at which 
occupations he made considerable monex". While en- 
gaged in tilling the soil, his wife died, and for his 
second helpmate he took Miss Maggie Stauffer, a 
Pennsylvanian by birth, but a resident of Stark 
County, Ohio, at the time of her marriage. To 
them one child has been born. After leaving the 
farm, Mr. Lesh removed to Louisville and bought 
a one-third interest in a planiug-mill, which he 
operated successfuUv for two years when the mill 
caught fire and was burned to the ground. This 
was a total loss, as there was no insurance, and 
Mr. Lesh was compelled to start anew, which he 
did with undaunted energy. The following fall 
he bought a one-fourth interest in a tile manu- 
factory in Louisville, with which he was con- 
nected for about six months, then sold his inter- 
est and took a trip through the West, Kansas and 
Texas being his choice of States for a location. 
Not being suited, he returned to Ohio and bought 
a one-half interest in the Excelsior Flouring Mill, 
which he owned one and one-half years. After 
selling out. he purchased a stock of groceries and 
began business in a rented building. 

About one year later, he bought the hotel of 
which he is now proprietor, and has successfully 
conducted it up to the present time. The whole 
management of this house indicates the fact that 
intelligent and careful direction is exercised, and 
it is to tlie administrative ability of !Mr. Lesh that 
the position maintained by his house as one of the 
best conducted hotels in the county is due. He 
does not keep a bar, and will not tolerate drunken 
or noisy people about his place. He is a Repub- 
lican politically, but not an office-seeker, and in 
religion is a member of the Evangelical Church, 
his wife being in sympathy with the United 
Brethren Church. He is a member of the Junior 
Order of American Mechanics, being a charter 



ihember of Louisville Council No. 152. He is a 

man who is quiet and unassuming in mannei-s, but 
his many worth}' traits of character have won him 
many friends, and he is best liked by those who 
know him best — an excellent test of a man's char- 
acter. He is essentially self-made, and has the 
unbounded satisfaction of knowing that the prop- 
erty of which he is now the owner has been earned 
b}- his own efforts and by honorable means. 

The children of our subject are as follows: 
Laura E., who lives at home, was born in Plain 
Township; .Susan May died in infancy; Sarah A. 
was born in Plain Township; Ann Irena was born 
in that township also, as were John II. and Racy 
Belle. 



vp^ AMUEL MASE. In the a 
^^^^ cles of Stark County, the h 
lv^_^' was, by universal consent. 



AMUEL MASE. In the agricultural cir- 
late Samuel Mase 
accorded a high 
place. He was eminently successful in his 
calling, exhibited clearness of perception and 
soundness of judgment, and moreover enjoyed a 
reputation for moral worth and integrity of char- 
acter that is a proud heritage to his widow and 
children. 

A native of this county, our subject was born 
September .5, 1835, to Michael and Christina Mase, 
pioneers of this county. He was a brother of 
Henry Mase, for a full sketch of whom the reader 
is referred to another page in this work. Samuel 
prosecuted his studies in the early subscription 
schools of this State, and although his advantages 
were limited, he became a man of extensive in- 
formation, and was unusunlly well posted on both 
the political and financial questions agitating the 
American people, as he was a great reader and a 
deep thinker. 

When read}- to establish a home of his own, Mr. 
Mase was married December 27. 1857, to Miss 
Catherine Dinius, and their union has furnished a 
pleasant example of true wedded life. Mrs. Mase 
is also a native of this county, her birth occurring 
November 28, 1837, in the pioneer home of her 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



447 



parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Hensel) Dinius. To 
our subject and his excellent wife were born 
two children: Simon P., who married Alfaretta 
Bose, and Mary E., who is the wife of J. F. Koush. 
The latter is also the mother of two children, 
AValter E. and Earl C. 

During his life, Mr. Mase possessed true public 
spirit, and used his influence to enhance the best 
interests of his township and county, and all worthy 
enterprises for the promotion of their growth met 
with his hearty approval and cordial support. He 
served his fellow-townsmen as Trustee for some 
time, and in his political views was identified with 
the Democratic party. He was a prominent 
member of the United Brethren Church and 
departed this life July 20, 1888. His widow 
makes her home on the old farm, and is identified 
religiously with the Reformed Church, and has 
done much to promote the good cause in her 
communit}'. In his domestic relations our subject 
was all that could be wished for — kind, considerate 
and loving to his wife and children. Self-made in 
the truest sense of the word, it is with pleasure 
that we present his sketch to our readers. 



^#' 



f/ULIUS WHITING, Sh., a retired banker of' 
Canton, who has made his home in this city 
for many years, claims Connecticut as the 
State of his nativity. He was born in 
Litchfield Countj' on the 14th of Ap?-il, 1816, and 
on both the paternal and maternal sides is of 
English descent. His father was also a native of 
Litchfield County, and the son of John Whiting. 
He married Elizabeth Conklin, daughter of Thomas 
Conkiin, who was also born in the Nutmeg State. 
The father of our subject was a farmer bj' occupation 
and continued to reside in Connecticut until his 
death, which occurred in 1862. In religious be- 
lief, he and his wife were Presbyterians. 

Julius Whiting, whose name heads this record, 
was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads, and 
aciiuired his edufation in the district schools and 



Westfield Academy. At the age of sixteen, he 
began teaching, following that profession for two 
winters. Not wishing to make agriculture his life 
work, at the age of eighteen he became a clerk in 
a general store in Ellington, Conn., remaining for 
five years with his emploj^er, Timothy Pitkin, a 
thorough business man, from whom he gained a 
good knowledge of business methods. He then 
secured a position as salesman in the general store 
of Solomon Pitkin, in Amherst, Mass. In the 
spring of 1841, he came to Canton, Ohio, to accept 
the position of Teller in the Farmers' Bank, and 
after serving in that capacity' for a year, was called 
upon to assist the receiver in closing up the busi- 
ness. In 1843, his father died and he returned to 
Colbrook, Conn., to settle up the estate, which 
business engrossed his attention for about eighteen 
months. In 1844, he returned to Canton, and en- 
gaged in the insurance, real-estate and brokerage 
business and in buying and selling paper. 

In 1847, Mr. Whiting married Miss Harriet K. 
Stidger, the daughter of George Stidger, one of 
the pioneers of Canton, who came from Baltimore, 
Md., to this city in 1807. Unto them have been 
born four children, two of whom are 3'et living: 
Julius, now a prominent attorney of Canton; and 
Helen F., wife of Fred Hartzell, of Wooster, Ohio. 

After his marriage, Mr. Whiting continued to 
engage in the real-estate and insurance business and 
also carried on farming to some extent. In 18.54, he 
formed a partnership with Isaac Harter, Martin 
AVickidal and Peter Trumjj, doing a general bank- 
ing business under the firm name of Harter, Trump, 
Wickidal & Co. Mr. AVhiting acted as Cashier and 
General Manager until 1861, when, on account of 
failing health, he disposed of his interest in the 
Savings Deposit Bank. 

In his political affiliations, Mr. Whiting is a 
stalwart Republican. He has a commodious and 
handsome residence at No. 144 North Market Streoti 
where he and his wife live the greater part of their 
time, but several of the past winters Mr. Whiting 
has spent in Florida. Mr. Whiting started out in 
business with very limited means, but his life has 
been characterized by industry and frugality. He 
has made judicious investments and by his honor- 
able dcidiiigs lias accuniulat('(l a conifortable com- 



448 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



peteney, which numbers him among the substantial 
citizens of Canton, and enables him to pass his de- 
clininor years in retirement, surrounded liy all the 
comforts and many of the luxuries of life. 



_^l(' MOS W. COATE.S, of Alliance, is one of 
MeM the prominent and representiitive men of 
Ohio, and throughout the country he is 
well known both personally and by repu- 
tation as an inventor and genius. He was born in 
Marlborough Township, Stark County, April 24, 
1834, and comes of an old Pennsylvania family. 
His paternal grandfather was the founder of 
Coatesville, Pa. His parents, Amos and Jane B. 
(Norris) Coates, were natives of the Keystone 
State, and emigrated to Ohio in a moving wagon 
in 1823, locating in Marlborough Township, 
Stark Count}', when it was sparsely settled. Mr. 
Coates was a man of scholarly attainments and 
had charge of an academj- in Chester County, Pa. 
Subsequently he was a merchant of Philadelphia, 
and after coming to Oliio engaged in farming 
and teaching school. He was very successful in 
both pursuits and accumulated a handsome prop- 
erty, being surrounded in his later years with all 
the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. 
He had a family of twelve children, our subject 
being the seventh son. 

Amos W. Coates, of this sketch, completed a 
course of study in Marlborough Academy at the 
age of seventeen years, after which he spent two 
years in learning stove plate and machine casting. 
He subsequently formed a partnership with his 
brother-in-law, J. D. Arnold, and under the firm 
name of Arnold & Coates, began the manufacture 
of plows and castings in Paris, this county. The 
enterprise proved a pecuniary success, and in the 
summer of 1855 tiiey added to their foundiy the 
manufacture of haj- rakes, on the old Sander's pat- 
ent, and in tlie latter part of the same year intro- 
duced what W.1S believed to be the first sulky 



spring-tooth horse hay rake ever used in Stark 
Count}-. However, they soon disposed of their 
interest in the rake business and for several years 
devoted themselves to the manufacture of plows 
and castings. During this time, commencing in 
1858, Mr. Coates spent his leisure moments in 
reading law under the instruction of Alexander 
Pierce, of Canton. In 18G0, he purchased the 
factory and foundiy, but in the fall of 1861 sold 
the same and enlisted in the Fremont Body Guard, 
going to St. Louis with a part of a company. On 
account of the removal of Gen. Fremont and the 
disbandment of the guard, he was soon discliarged 
from the service and returned home. 

On March 22, 1859, Mr. Coates wedded Miss 
Ada F., the accomplished daughter of A. B. and 
Catherine Freer, of Paris, Ohio. Of the nine chil- 
dren born of their union, six are j-et living: 
Hallam F., who was graduated from Amiierst 
College, of Massachusetts, is now Secretary and 
Superintendent of the Cambridge Foundry Com- 
pany, at Cambridge, C)hio; Horatio was drowned 
in the city reservoir, January 1, 1880; Ida is a 
graduate of the musical department of Mt. I'nion 
College; Nellie is a student of the same college; 
Hartwell W., Hays K. and Eltie are attending the 
High School of Alliance. 

On being discharged from the service, Mr. 
Coates resumed his law studies and was admitted 
to the Bar in the December term of the Supreme 
Court of Ohio (1862), but did not enter upon 
practice. Early in 1863, he repurchased the Paris 
Foundry and Plow Works, which he conducted 
for about a year. In Sejitember, 1864, he re- 
moved to Alliance, Ohio, and began the erection 
of a portion of the buildings now occupied b\' his 
works, and there continued the manufacture of 
plows. In the spring of 1865, he abandoned this 
business and embarked in the manufacture of 
what is known as the White Ha\' Rake. In the 
fall he invented his lock-lever rake, which was 
patented in 1867, and has since continued to 
manufacture the same, frequently improving it to 
keep pace with the ever advancing progress in 
farm implements. In the fall of 1867, on account 
of his increased business, large additions were made 
to the buildings, and again the following year the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



449 



alreadj' extensive establishment had to be enlarged. 
In 1869, the partnership was formed known as 
Coates, Gray & Co.,tlie connection being dissolved 
in 1874, when Mr. Coates purchased the inter- 
est of the other members of the firm. 

Mr. Coates has made many wonderful and use- 
ful inventions, and has secured eight important 
patents — three on his lock-lever hay rake, one on 
a spring seat for the same, two on guarded scissors, 
one on a child's pocket-knife, and one on a water 
elevator for wells and cisterns. Applications have 
come clear from Spain for this last article. He is 
also one of the principal promoters of tiie Essick 
telegraph system, which S. X. Essick patented in 
1883. It is now being used successfully in all 
parts of the world, and when it is more widely 
known will no doubt enter into general use. 
Stock companies are being formed in many places 
witii vast capital for the purpose of operating this 
sj-stem of telegraph}-. In January, 1888, Mi". 
Coates organized the rake works into a corpora- 
tion with a paid-up capital of )i!60,000. The repu- 
tation of "Coates lock-lever hay and grain rake" 
is so thoroughly established that it finds sale in 
all parts of the United States and is shipped 
largely to Europe and South America. The 
grounds, buildings and machinery are valued at 
about 1.00,000. Fifty men are employed, and 
from $80,000 to IIOO.OOO worth of work is an- 
nually turned out, while the gross sales of the rake 
alone have exceeded 11,000,000. At the Paris 
Exposition in 1878, the Coates lock-lever rake 
received the only silver medal and diploma 
awarded to any horse rake separate from 
other foreign implements. The business is now 
conducted under the corporation name of The A. 
W. Coates Co., and is one of the most substan- 
tial manufacturing enterprises of the State. It 
stands forth to-day with a strong reputation 
and largely incieasing patronage. At a cost of 
*20,000, in 1877, our subject erected the Coates 
Block, one of the finest business blocks in Alli- 
ance, the upper story of which forms a commo- 
dious and elegant public hall that is fitted up as 
an Odd Fellows' lodge room. 

In the fall of 1875, Mr. Coates was tlie candi- 
date on the Re|iubiican ticket fur State Senator, 



and, although the Democratic majority was over 
one thousand, he was defeated by only forty- 
eight votes. This certainly indicates his promi- 
nence and great popularity. He has been a mem- 
ber of the Alliance City Council, and for a time 
was proprietor of the Independent Age, a journal 
published in the interest of literature, news and 
religion. He is connected with nearly all the se- 
cret societies, including the Masons, Knights of 
Pythias, Odd Fellows, Knights of Honor, and 
Royal Arcanum, and has held all the offices of the 
subordinate lodges except in the Masonic order. 
That Mr. Coates is a man of more than ordinary 
ability, this record of his successes shows. In the 
legitimate channels of business he has won wealth, 
and at the same time gained the confidence of all 
with whom he has been brought in contact, and 
their good-will and respect are his. 



|, &ILLIAM F. 
W^ typical. n( 



;ILLIAM F. SCHARIO. There are quite 
r of houses in this city that are 
lot alone of the comprehen- 
sive growth and the increasing importance of 
Canton, but whose career is a source of public 
pride, delineating, as they do, the general busi- 
ness enterprise and commercial sagacity of the 
leading citizens. Such a concern is the whole- 
sale and retail establishment conducted by Will- 
iam F. Scliario at Nos. 48 and 50 North Market 
Street. He is also President of the Champion 
Stoneware Company, and is one of the thorough- 
going, progressive business men of Canton. He 
was born on a farm in Jackson Township, Stark 
County, Ohio, on the 27th of September, 1845, 
and is the eldest son born to tlie union of Bern- 
hard and Elizabeth (Hammer) Schario, both na- 
tives of Germany. 

The parents emigrated to the United States in 
1838, and the following year settled in Stark 
Count}-, Ohio, where the father followed the occu- 
pation of a farmer in Jackson Township. He was 
very enterprising and industrious, traits of eliar- 



450 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD: 



acter well known among those of German ua- 
tivit3', and he met with much success as an agri- 
culturist. Earlj' in life, he had followed the black- 
smith's trade. He died on the old homestead in 
Jackson Township in June, 1888, and the mother 
followed him to the grave in June, 1890, when in 
her seventy-sixth _year. They were devoted mem- 
bers of the Catholic Church. The fatlier held the 
ofiice of Supervisor of his township, and also held 
other local positions of note. 

The subject of this sketch, the second of eight 
children, four sons and four daughters, divided 
his time in youth in attending the district scliool 
in winter and working on the farm during the 
summer. Remaining with his parents until twenty- 
one years of age, he then began farming on his 
own account, and was very successful in this 
occupation, having had a very good teacher in 
his father. In 1870, he came to Canton and em- 
barked in the grocery business, but with a very 
little capital to begin with, as he had made other 
investments with his money. He rented a room 
and went to Uannamiller tt Co., stating to them 
that he wanted to buy $2,500 worth of groceries, 
and that he could not paj' a single dollar down. 
The}- then asked if he could give security. He 
replied that he could, but would not give security 
for a single dollar further than his own obliga- 
tion, but if they would let him have the goods 
he would paj- them as soon as he made the money. 
They decided to let him have the goods. 

Mr. Schario emplo3-ed two clerks and started in 
with a determination to win, working early and 
late to get a footing. At the end of three years, 
he was out of debt and had 18,000 cash. He built 
his present storehouse in 1880, the dimensions 
being 27x145 feet, and three stories in height, be- 
sides a basement. All the floors are occupied by 
his business, and he has a large and varied stock 
and an unusually large trade. Mr. Schario carries 
on his affairs on the soundest business principles, 
and his record lends to these pages and Canton 
credit and standing. His honest dealings and gen- 
tlemaulj' conduct have rendered him very popular 
with the trading public. 

On the 25th of May, 1868, Mr. Schario was mar- 
ried to Miss Amelia Dick, of Jackson Township, 



this count}', the only daughter of Joseph and 
Mary Dick. This union resulted in the birth of 
nine children, seven daughters and two sons, as 
follows: Elnora, clerk in her father's store; Alice, 
Amelia, Marv, Estella, Cora, Gracie, William S. 
and Edwin G. Mr. Schario has served as Trustee, 
also as Supervisor of his township, and has held 
other positions. He, in connection with others, 
organized the Champion Stoneware Company in 
1888, and he was made Vice-president, which 
position he now holds. He was also one of the 
organizers of the Canton Stove Company, is one 
of its Directors, and has been a stockholder in 
the Crystal Spring Ice Company since its organ- 
ization. He is a stockholder in the Canton Busi- 
ness Men's Association. In politics, Mr. Schario is 
conservative. He and his family hold membership 
in the St. John's Catholic Church, and are com- 
fortably situated at No. 124 North Plum Street. 






^I^,EY. J. II. IIAHPSTER, pastor of the Trin- 
Its^'^ ity Lutheran Church at Canton, was born 
!i^\ at Centre Hall, Centre County, Pa., April 
'' 27, 1844. Of Swiss ancestry, the original 
progenitors of the family in America emigrated 
hither prior to the Revolutionary War, in which 
conflict Grandfather George Harpster participated 
as Sergeant. For many generations the represen- 
tatives of the family possessed unusual talent in a 
mechanical direction, and engaged for the most 
part in manufacturing. 

The parents of our subject, George and Frances 
(Lebker) Harpster, were natives of Pennsylvania, 
and the father engnged in business as a manufac- 
turer and foundr3'man until his death, which oc- 
curred in Centre Count}', as did tliat of the 
mother. They were the parents of twelve chil- 
dren, of whom our subject is the youngest. He 
was reared at Centre Hall and received his literary 
education at Pine Grove Mills, where he took an 
academic course. Afterward he entered the Mis- 
sionary Institute at Selin's Grove, Pa., where he 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



451 



studied for some time. To say tliat lie took ad- 
vantage of every opportunity for increasing his 
range of knowledge, is merely to state what ac- 
tually occurred. He had resolved to enter the 
ministry, and with that purpose in view, became 
a student in the theological seminary at Gettys- 
burg, Pa., fi'om which he was graduated in 1872. 

Some j-ears prior to this important event, and 
during the opening 3'ears of the Civil War, our 
subject enlisted in 1861, at the age of seventeen 
years, becoming a member of Company G, One 
Hundred and Forty-eight Penns3ivauia Infantry, 
(Gov. Beaver's Regiment), and was appointed 
Captain of his companj*. He was present at the 
surrender of Appomattox and served throughout 
the entire war. He was wounded at the battle of 
Chancellorsville by a gunshot, again at the battle 
of Gettysburg by a shell, and at the battle of the 
Wilderness by a gunshot in the head. He par- 
ticipated in every great engagement from Fred- 
ericksburgh to Appomattox, and at the close of 
hostilities resumed his studies, graduating as above 
stated in 1872. Meanwhile he served as Professor 
of Military Tactics in the Agricultural College of 
Pennsylvania, where he remained about one year. 

Immediately afler graduating, Mr. Harpster went 
to India as a missionary, and en route to that 
place, visited many countries of Europe as well as 
Egypt and the H0I3' Land. He remained in India 
for five 3'ears and accomplished much good there, 
baptizing over one thousand persons and establish- 
ing many churches. His health failing, he was 
obliged to resign his position, and returned to 
America, via Siam, Japan, China and the Pacific 
Ocean, landing in San Francisco. On account of 
his impaired health he spent three j'ears in Cali- 
fornia and became interested in gold mining. 

Leaving California, Rev. Mr. Harpster came 
East as far as Kansas, where he built a church at 
Hays City and was its pastor for three years. Re- 
singing his pastorate, he took up the study of med- 
icine, with a view of returning to India as a med- 
ical missionaiy. He entered the Universit3^ of 
Mar3'land at Baltimore, where he took a course of 
lectures, but domestic circumstances prevented his 
return to India. 

Accepting a call to the church at Trenton, N. .J., 



Rev. Mr. Harpster remained there for three years, 
until Januaiy, 1885, when he took the pastorate of 
tlie church at Canton, and has since done minis- 
terial work in this cit3'. Since his pastorate com- 
menced, he has erected an elegant church edifice 
and chapel, in addition to a mission chapel in an- 
other part of the cit3-. During his labors here, he 
has increased the membership of the church from 
two hundred and fift3' to about seven hundred. 
The church is supplied with a new and modern pii)e 
organ, a gift of the late G. D. Harter, costing 16,- 
000, and said to be the finest in the State. As a 
preacher, eloquent and earnest; as a pastor, con- 
siderate and kindly; as a friend, true and stanch; 
as a neighbor, obliging and generous; as a citizen, 
public-spirited and progressive; in every relation 
of life oui- subject stands high in the regard of 
the people. 

In 1882, Rev. .7. H. Harpster and Miss M. Julia 
Jacobs were united in marriage. Mrs. Harpster is 
a native of Gettysburg, Pa., and a daughter of M. 
Jacobs, D. D., who was for forty 3'ears Professor in 
Gettysburg College, and was widely known as a 
man of broad intelligence. 



?ELIX RHODES SHEPLEY, besides being 
engaged in the wholesale cigar business, 
occupies the position of Secretaiy, Treas- 
urer and Director of the Massillon Stoneware Coni- 
p.an3^, and is also a stockholder and Director of the 
News-Dernovrat. He is one of the prominent and 
shrewd 3'oung business men of the cit3' and identi- 
fied with its progress. 

John Sheple3', the father of our subject, was 
born January 1, 1810, in Funkstown, Washington 
County, Md., the son of Peter Shepley, Jr. and 
Catherine (Shilling) Shepley. Peter Shepley 's 
father, who was also named Peter, married Bar- 
b.ara Geseman, whose maiden name was Barbara 
Oberlin. They had four children, Frederick, 
Peter, Samuel ami Martha. Peter Shepley, Jr., 



452 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



entered tlie War of 1812, served as Drum Major 
and died ere the close of the war. He had three 
children, Frederick, John and Lenna. .John, when 
a lad of nine years, walked out to this county, 
coming in company with his uncle, Adam Shilling, 
who moved his f.amily by wagon and settled in 
Tuscarawas Township. ,lohn remained there until 
1827, living in the meantime with different parties; 
one year with his aunt, two years with .John Say- 
lor and over three years with Samuel Mock. In 
1827 he came to Ivendall and remained ten years 
in the eniploj' of Skinner & Duncan. 

Since that time, John Shepley has been a con- 
stant resident of this city. He afterward engaged 
in business for himself, running a dray and doing 
general transportation work; he worked in a mill 
one year, clerked six months for Humberger & 
Ciimmings, and for some time was employed on 
the railroad. During the palmy days of boating 
on the Ohio Canal, be owned and ran two boats, 
the "Hercules" and "Giraffe," which were run in the 
interest of the coal trade. He has been a life-long 
Democrat, but voted for I^incoln at his last 
election. He has filled various offices of trust and 
responsibility, such as Township Clerk, Treasurer 
and Constable, and from 1859 to 1862 as Deputy 
Sheriff; also Deput}' United States Marshal; for 
two years was Postmaster under Pierce's adminis- 
tration, was elected and served two years as Cor- 
oner, once as City Marshal. During the early his- 
tory of the city he had charge of the poor. For 
several years he was engaged in the hat trade with 
George A. Kellenberger under the firm name of 
Kellenberger & Co., which partnership began in 
1847 and terminated in 1851. 

The father of our subject has been thrice married, 
first, July 4, 1834, to Elizabeth, daughter of John 
Spiague, a native of Vermont. She died in 1843, 
leaving no children. He was married the second 
time in September, 1844, to Susan Kellenberger, 
who was born February 1, 1817, in Lancaster 
County, Pa., daughter of Peter, whose wife was a 
Rudy. Susan died August 11, 1845, leaving a 
child, George A. His third marrisige occurred May 
4, 1847, and united him with Eliza K^ellenberger, 
who was born January 12, 1818, in Emmitsburg, 
Frederick County. Md. She was a daughter of 



John Kellenberger, whose wife was Sarah Britton, 
of Baltimore, Md.; by her he had four children, 
Frank J., Mary C, liernard T. and Felix l?hodes. 
He is at present residing in tliis city at the advanced 
age of eighty-two years. 

Felix R. of this sketch was born in Massillon, 
April 17, 1855. and was given an excellent educa- 
tion in St. Joseph's Parochial School. He left 
school in order to take the position of office boy 
(July 24, 1871) in the Excelsior Agricultural 
Works at Massillon, with which firm he remained 
until their failure in business in September, 1878. 
During the years he was in their employ he worked 
his way up from office boy to the position of as- 
sistant cashier and book-keeper. 

In 1879, our subject engaged as traveling sales- 
man for Peter Sailer, representing him in Eastern 
and Central Oliio. He remained with Mr. Sailer 
until July, 1882, when he became assistant book- 
keeper for Russell & Co., remaining in their em- 
ploy until 1886, when he resigned, and in August 
of that year established his present cigar manufac- 
tory and retail business. March 1, 1892, he dis- 
posed of his retail trade and now devotes his entire 
time and attention to the wholesale cigar trade. 

On the election of Cleveland as President, Mr. 
Shepley was an applicant for the position of Post- 
master, being endorsed by Gov. Warwick. Owing 
however, to the Payne-Pendelton senatorial fight, 
the former endorsed ex-State Treasurer Antlion}' 
Howells, who was appointed by Cleveland. In 
February, 1888, that gentleman resigned the posi- 
tion and our subject was appointed to fill the va- 
cancy, serving until August 1, 1891, when, on 
.iceount of political reasons, he was removed by 
President Harrison. 

In 1882, Mr. Shepley was appointed by the 
Council City Clerk, and reappointed in 1883. Up 
to this time the office was supposed to be a yearly- 
appointive one, but the Supreme Court having in 
the meantime decided it an elective one and for a 
term of two years, Mr. Shepley, in 1884, when the 
incoming Republican Council undertook to elect 
another clerk, protested against their action, claim- 
ing that under the election of 1883, and the de- 
cision of the Supreme Court, his term of office 
would not expire until the spring of 1885. The 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



453 



Council ignored the claim and elected Mr. Pea- 
cock to succeed him. Mr. Siiepley refused to 
surrender the records, seals and otlier city prop- 
erty, retaining them until 1885, when he sued 
.and obtained judgment .against the city for one 
year's salary. 

In March, 1890, the firm of Boerner, Shepley & 
Yogt was organized, and, buying an old glass fac- 
tory the}' converted it into a pottery. They incor- 
porated in September, 1890, as the Massillon Stone- 
ware Comp.any. Our subject was elected its Sec- 
retary and Treasurer, which position he still holds. 
Their business is steadily on the increase, and tlie 
firm gives constant employment to about thirty-five 
hands. In his cigar business, Mr. Shepley keeps 
ten men busy, and has the largest establishment of 
its kind in the cit^-. 

Since 1890, our subject lias been Director of the 
Canton Netvs-Democrat, and was one of the organ- 
izers of the Massillonian^ and for the first four 
months was its manager. He was Deputy Auditor 
of the Board of Equalization of this city for two 
years, and has represented the Democratic part}' 
as delegate to various countj' conventions. In 
religious affairs, he is a Catholic and a prominent 
member of St. Joseph's Cburdi. 



]-^+^[ 



ENRY N. MI LLER, who has ever shown him- 
self worthy of llie confidence of the people 
of his community, has also been a potent 
factor in advancing its interests. Formerly 
one of the best known and most prominent con- 
tractors and builders of this section, he is now liv- 
ing retired, making his home in a most beautiful 
residence on the New Berlin road north of the city 
of Canton. He is a man of more tlian ordinary 
force and enterprise, of great practicality and supe- 
rior business talents, and he attributes his financial 
success to caieful attention to his affairs. 

]\[r. Miller, wlio was born in Plain Township, 
tliis county, .luly 15, 1840, is the son of John A. 
Miller, a native of Center County, Pa., wliose birtli 



occurred February 12, 1815. His father, Henry 
Miller, Sr., was also a native of the Keystone State, 
and of Swiss descent, the first representative of the 
family having come to America during Colonial 
times. The latter-named gentleman was a shoe- 
maker and stonemason by trade, and in 1816 
made the trip to this State over the mountains by 
means of a team and wagon, and locating in Plain 
Township, purchased ten acres of laud, where he 
resided, prosecuting his trade of a shoemaker dur- 
ing the winter .season, and working as a mason in 
the summer months. He aided in erecting the first 
brick building in the city of Canton, and was 
known far and wide as an excellent and reliable 
workman. Finally' disposing of his ten-acre tr.ict 
he purchased one hundred and twenty acres in 
Lake Township, this count}-, and during the latter 
years followed the pursuit of a farmer. He was 
twice married, and reared a family of fifteen chil- 
dren. He was a man of intelligence, not only in 
the line of his work, but regarding topics of gen- 
eral interest, and at his death, which occurred in 
his fifty -eighth year. Stark County lost one of her 
best citizens. 

John A. Miller, the father of our subject, was an 
infant of one year when his parents came to this 
State, and when old enough to attend school, prose- 
cuted his studies in the pioneer log schoolhouse, 
which was carried on by the subscription plan and 
offered but meagre advantages to those eager to 
obtain learning. When choosing an occupation in 
life, he learned the carpenter's trade, which busi- 
ness he followed during the remainder of his ac- 
tive career. He has contracted for and erected 
many of the finest residences in the county, and is 
now living retired, making his home on a six- 
acre tract of land in Plain Township. 

Our subject's mother, who bore the maiden 
name of Sarah Raird, was born in this county in 
1820, and by her union witii Mr. Miller reared a 
family of ten children, nine of whom are living, 
viz: R.achel, our subject, Peter, Margaret, Cathe- 
rine, David, William, Samuel and Emma. The 
mother, who is still living, is with iier husband a 
devoted member of the Henry Reformed Church. 
The father, who is a man of generous impulses and 
cheerful disposition, has hosts of well-wishers and 



454 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



many siucere friends, who will he pleased to And 
mention of him in this sketch. In politics, he is a 
stanch Democrat. 

The maternal grandfather of our subject, George 
Baird, was a native of Mar}land, and took up his 
abode in this State as early as 1810, he and his 
wife walking tlic entire distance to Ohio. On ar- 
riving here, he located one-half mile east of where 
our subject is residing and leasing land from par- 
ties in Wasliington, cleared it, and put in a crop 
of wheat. Indians who were very numerous in 
the localitj', often made visits to his cabin, and 
deer and other kinds of wild game could be had 
for the shooting. He was a large, powerful man, 
and when going through the woods to mill would 
shoulder three bushels of wheat, and taking his rifle 
with him, would hunt on the waj-. He was a very 
prominent figure at log cabin raisings, where he 
took up one corner of the building, and when 
completing his work, would jump to the ground 
instead of climbing down. During his later 3'ears 
he removed to Crawford County, where he died at 
the age of eighty-three years. This branch of the 
family was of Dutch descent. 

He whose name heads this sketch was reared to 
manhood in Plain Township, where he attended 
the pioneer log schoolhouse with its primitive fur- 
nishings. When thirteen years of age, his father 
being in limited circumstances, he was obliged to 
do for himself, and began working out on farms 
by the month, being thus engaged for three years. 
Then, deciding to follow in the footsteps of liis fa- 
ther, he also learned the carpenter's trade, which 
he made his life occupation. The lady who be- 
came his wife, January 16, 1862, was Miss Maiy 
Festerly, who was born in this township, March 4, 
1840. Of the three children born, to them, two 
are living: Bertha M., who married Homer Baugh- 
man, lives in the city of Canton; and Sarah Al- 
meda makes her home with her parents. After his 
marriage, Mr. Miller rented property for five years, 
during which time he prosecuted his trade with 
vigor, and being economical, acquired a compe- 
tence, and soon occupied the foremost rank among 
the citizens of Plain Township. His work as a 
contractor has not been confined to Stark County, 
but his reputation has extended far beyond its lim- 



its, and he has erected some of the best dwellings 
and blocks in Summit and Wayne Counties, be- 
sides barns which number ninet^'-six. 

Mr. Miller is a man of excellent common sense, 
sagacious and wide-awake in the transaction of 
business, and Is the owner of sixtj'-three acres of • 
finely improved land, for which he paid 89,000. 
It is under the best cultivation, and supplied with 
ample buildings for every needed purpose. His 
present large frame residence, wliich was erected 
in 1879, is a model of beauty, and one of the finest 
in the section. His worldly prosperitj- does credit 
to his ability and strength of character, as when he 
established a home of his own he had but §6.3 in 
mone^', and that was expended for furniture. 
With his wife he belongs to the Catholic Church, 
of which they are active and influential members. 
In his political relations, he is a member of the 
Democratic party, and is now serving his seventh 
year as Township Treasurer. For ten years he oc- 
cupied the responsible office of Constable, and has 
always taken a dcei) interest in whatever concerns 
the welfare of his township and county. 



*:i;^?S^i£^ 




i^^m^^^m^^^ 



R. GEORGP: STEWART BEATTY, den- 
tist. Canton, Ohio. If there is one in- 
f^i^f^ firmity of human nature more excruciat- 
ingly painful than another, it is the tooth- 
ache, and 3'et it is one for which there is the least 
sympathy given. The poet of Scotland well de- 
scribes this phase of the question in one of his 
inimitable poems. While the toothache may not 
be dangerous to life, it nevertheless brings misery 
in its train, and totally unfits the sufferer for any 
kind of business. The teeth should be properly 
cared for from childhood before decay sets in, and 
therefore parents should consider that they have 
an important duty to perform in taking tlieir chil- 
dren to the dentist to have their teeth examined, 
so that the least symptoms of decay may be checked 
and the teetli preserved. 

Among the prominent dentists of the city of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



455 



Canton stands Dr. George Stewart Bcatty, who 
is a native of the Empire State, born in Penn- 
field, Monroe County, September 30, 1818. His 
father, Benjamin Beatty, was a native of New Jer- 
sey, and was reared principally in New York Slate, 
wliere later in life he followed the occupation of a 
farmer. His father, Isaac Beatty, was born in the 
Northern part of Ireland, but went from there to 
England, where he took passage for America. He 
was a Captain in the Revolutionary War and 
served faithfully from the beginning to the close. 
The father of our subject died when the latter w.as 
but twelve years of age. The motlier was born at 
Kinderhook, N. Y., on the banks of the Mo- 
hawk River, and was a daughter of Jacob Vaus- 
biirg, whose ancestors were from Holland. After 
the death of her husband, Mrs. Beatty married the 
second time, and received her final summons in 
Crawford County, Pa. 

Dr. George Stewart Beatty, the eldest of four 
children, a daughter and three sons, passed his 
youth in his native county and in addition to a 
common-school education attended Victor Acad- 
emy. He remained in his native county until 
twenty-two years of age, and then commenced the 
study of dentistrj' at Meadville, Pa., with Dr. At- 
kinson, a noted phj'sician and dentist. The Doc- 
tor commenced his practice at Meadville, and 
traveled at intervals for a number of years. In 
1844, he came to Canton, opened an ortice and 
practiced until 1860, when he returned to New 
York, locating in Chautauqua County, where he 
remained four years. From there he moved to 
Toledo, Ohio, and was e;igaged in the active prac- 
tice of his profession for fourteen years, when he 
moved to Akron, this State. After practicing his 
profession there for five years, in May, 1885, he 
returned to Canton, where he purchased the fix- 
tures of John Siddall, opened an office and con- 
tinued his practice at the same stand. He is well 
provided with every new improved appliance for 
making the extraction of teeth as easy and pain- 
less an operation as possible; also preserves the 
natural teeth and makes to order artificial teetli. 

Dr. Beatty was first married in 1838 to Miss 
Charlotte Whitney, of Silver Creek, N. Y., 
daughter of Capt. .1. C. Wliitney, and ten children 



were born to this union, five of whom attained 
maturity. They were as follows: William C, in 
the Cleveland & Canton Railroad office; Bertha 
A., wife of Frank Bursherd, of Toledo, Ohio; 
Adda married A. H. Clark, now of Washington 
State; Mary, wife of Edward Reardon, now of 
Dallas, Tex., and Ella, wife of C. Snyder, of 
Toledo, Ohio. The Doctor's present wife was 
formerly Mrs. Jennie (Crockam) Trj'on. No 
children have been born to this marriage. In pol- 
itics, the Doctor is a Republican, and his first Pres- 
idential vote was cast for William H. Harrison and 
his last for Benjamin Harrison. Once more his 
vote will be cast for a Harrison this year, 1892. He 
resides at No. 20SI West Seventh Street. 



\I7 OUIS SCHAEFER, deceased, was one of the 
I (?S, the leading men of Canton for many years 
J'-^v, and the city owes much of its prosperity to 
his untiring efforts in its behalf. He was born in 
the Department of the Moselle, France, and was a 
son of Philip and Catherine (Loehr) Schaefer. His 
education wjis acquired chiefly in his native place 
and he received much valuable instruction from 
his fatiier, who was a teacher by profession. In 
1830, he came with his parents to this countr}', 
the family locating near Osnaburg, Stark County. 
Louis spent the early j'ears of his life in this 
county, in clerking in a general store in Paris. 
Subsequently, he came to Canton and having made 
choice of the law as his profession, he entered the 
office of Griswold & Grant and was admitted to 
practice in 1842. From that time until his death, 
he was a leading attorney of the city. In the fall 
of 1843, bj' the friends of the administration of 
President Tyler, he was tendered the Secretary- 
ship of the French Legation, but respectfully de- 
clined the high compliment on account of his 
growing law pr.actice. He devoted himself assid- 
uously to his profession and succeeded in placing 
himself among the foremost men at the Bar. 



456 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RFX'ORD. 



To public interests, Mr. Schaefer also gave much 
time. He was a member of the City Council for 
twelve years and served two terms as County Com- 
missioner, tlie promptness and fidelity with which 
lie performed his duty, giving him high commend- 
ation. For nine years, he was connected with the 
Board of Education and did much for the welfare 
of tlie public schools. In 1868, the Board saw fit 
to prohibit religious exercises in schools, believing 
that, as so many creeds and denominations were 
represented, and as the spirit and intention of the 
public school laws were adverse to the introduction, 
citiier directly or indirectly, of any religious dog- 
mas or views, it was wise to leave the same outside 
of the school room. This action on the part of 
tlie Board brought forth a protest from a number 
of the clergymen in Canton, who wished tlie law 
Vescinded. Their petition was respectfully received 
by the Board and replied to, i)oint by point, by 
Mr. Schaefer, whose sound views on tiic subject 
were unanimously endorsed by the Board. 

In the establishment of the water works system 
for Canton, Mv. Schaefer was the leading spirit, 
and he was active in securing the |)assage of the bill 
authorising County Commissioners to build court 
houses. The Stark County Court House was the first 
one erected under that law, Mr. Schaefer being a 
member of tlie Board of County Commissioners at 
that time. In 1866, he was the candidate on the Dem- 
ocratic ticket for Congress, and he represented the 
Seventeenth Ohio District on the commission sent 
to AVashington to demand the release of Vallan- 
diiigham. 

In May, 184!), Mr. Schaefer was united in mar- 
riage with Catherine Anna, daughter of Rev. 
Stephen Mealy, of Savannah, Ga. To them were 
born three children: Mary E., wife of Judge Day; 
Alice L., who died in 1874, at the age of twenty- 
one years; and Louis M., who died in June, 1890. 
The mother died in 1879, and several years later 
Mr. Schaefer wedded Miss Helen Connyer, a native 
of Holmes County. 

Mr. Schaefer made an excellent Secretary of the 
Board of Trade and, with other enterprising gentle- 
men, succeeded in having established in Canton 
several large manufacturing establishments, em- 
ploying over six hundred hands, together witii the 



mammoth watch making industry of the DueberA 
Hampden Company. In 1867, lie built the Schaefer 
Opera House and continued its manager until his 
last illness. He was one of the most popular man- 
agers in the country and made friends among some 
of the most noted theatrial people, including Ed- 
win Forrest, Lawrence Barrett, Thomas W. Keene, 
Clara Morris, Mary Anderson and Margaret Mather, 
and such managers of repute as John Ellsler, Au- 
gustus Pitou, Brooks & Dixon and Shook i^ Col- 
lier. 

The excellent public service of Mr. Schaefer in 
late years is well known to every one who has 
lived in or near Canton for any length of time. 
He was always anxious and willing to work for the 
benefit of the city and the promotion of its best 
interests. His energy was untiring and in his 
death Canton lost one of its most valued citizens. 
He enjoyed the highest respect and esteem of all 
with whom he came in contact and his death, 
which occurred November 12, 1889, was mourned 
by many friends. 



ill AMES CAMPBELL. Among the noble nun 
of Stark County, Ohio, who fulfilled their 
destiny and are now no more, may be men- 
tioned James Campbell, whose walk through 
life was characterized by the most honorable busi- 
ness methods, by the keenness of his commercial 
instincts, by his devotion to his family, and by 
the interest he took in the welfare of his fellow- 
men. He was born at Atwater, Portage County, 
Ohio, March 11, 1818, and upon attaining a suita- 
ble age began learning the carpenter's trade at 
Massillon, during which time he laid the founda- 
tions for his future successful career. I'pon com- 
pleting his apprenticeshi|), he came to Canton and 
until 1848 worked at his trade with John Hoover, 
when he moved with his family to JNIadison, Wis., 
where he became a successful contractor and builder 
and erected some of the handsomest and most sub- 
stantial structures of that city, which still stand 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



467 



as monuments to his skill and knowledge of his 
calling. Among these buildings m.iy be mentioned 
the State University, and some of the State Capitol 
buildings. 

Our subject pursued his calling with vigor and 
success, until the call of his distressed country for 
troops roused every patriotic feeling within him, 
when he cast aside personal considerations and on 
the 21st of September, 1861, became a private in 
Company L, Third Wisconsin Cavahy. On the 
14th of November following, he was made Second 
Lieutenant; on February 24, 1864, was made First 
Lieutenant, and March 9, 1865, was made Captain 
of Company D of the same regiment, and because 
of his gallant and meritorious conduct during the 
war was breveted as Major. At the close of the 
war, Mr. Campbell returned to Canton, Ohio, and 
entered into partnership with .John R. Poyser as a 
builder, and contractor, and the County Court 
House, the Eagle Block, the First Baptist Church, 
the Peerless AV'orks, as well as other important con- 
tracts, were the result of their ingenuit}' and labor. 

In 1872 he entered the lumber and planing-mill 
business, during which time he also carried on con- 
tracting, and the High School building on West 
Tuscarawas Street was erected. At the time of 
his death, March 27, 1892, which occurred at the 
age of seventy-four j-ears and sixteen days, he was 
President of the Campbell Lumber Company, which 
he so successfully established, and which is now 
one of the most important industries of the cit>'. 
In 1844, he was married to Miss Susan Eck, of 
Louisville, Ohio, whom he only survived a 3-ear 
and a half. During their married-life five children 
were born to them. One child died in infancy and 
their only daughter died at the age of sixteen years, 
while the3' were residents of Madison, Wis., which 
was a great affliciion to the devoted parents. Three 
sons: J. M., Charles B. and J. F., arc living, all of 
whom are active and highly honored business men 
of Canton. 

Shortly after the death of his wife, Mr. Camp- 
bell began to fail in health, and realizing the fact 
that the winters in the North were too severe for 
him, his last two winters were spent in Florida, 
with a brother who resided there. This had no per- 
ceptible benefit, however, and during his last trip 



he failed rapidly, and telegraphed to be taken home, 
which was done by careful and loving hands, but he 
onlj' reached home, the daj- before his death. He was 
a firm believer in the Gospel of Christ, and died 
peacefully. He was an accomplished and polished 
gentleman, both by instinct and training, and pos- 
sessed generous, true-hearted and hospitable in- 
stincts. He was liberal with his means and con- 
tributed to enterprises of worth, and being a man 
of intellect, who kept himself thoroughly posted 
on all the current topics of the day, his wealth was 
used to good advantage. A large concourse of 
people followed him to the grave as a mark of af- 
fection and respect to the memory of a worthy and 
noble man. 






m^m 



\^^ 



: REDERICK H. CARPENTER. Louisville, 
Ohio, is a busy little town, among whose 
principal industries is numbered that of the 
Carpenter Hosiery Company of which our subject 
is the manager and principal owner. Mr. Carpen- 
ter was born in York County, Me., August 5, 1836, 
and is a son of Albion and P>sther (Spencer) Car- 
penter. The father w.as an Englishman and came 
from London to America when about twenty years 
of age. Here he married and lived until his de- 
cease. He was a manufacturer, as is our subject. 

The fact that much of oiu' subject's boyhood 
days were spent in and about the mills accounts 
for his so naturally turning in that direction. He 
received his education in the Academy at Tilton, 
N. H., spending his seventeenth and eighteenth 
years there. His twentieth and twent3-first years 
were spent in the Commercial College at Mobile, 
Ala. He remained in the latter State, em]jloyed in 
the railroad service, until the War of the Rebellion 
broke out; and for six months after the firing upon 
Ft. Sumter, and when the lines were closely drawn 
between the North and South, remained at his post. 
The owners of the railroad and the employes were 
mostlj' Isorthern men. The company was in ar- 
rears to the employes, and consequcntlj- the latter 



458 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



were kept South longer than they would have de- 
sired. Mr. Carpenter finally left on a midnight 
train. Reaching Memphis, he found that he could 
go no farther, and so got employment in a machine 
shop there, working until a more favorable oppor- 
tunity should present itself to go North. 

While in Mobile, our subject was so patriotic that 
lie and another Northern man agreed to spike some 
cannon which the rebels were getting ready to send 
away, but at the last moment his partner weakened, 
and our subject did the business himself. AVlien 
arrested later at Memphis, he thought that his 
scheme had been discovered, but it proved to be 
not so. The Committee of Safetj' there would not 
allow him to leave the city, notwithstanding Jef- 
ferson Davis' proclamation that all who desired 
might do so. He obtained a position on the Mem- 
phis it Ohio Railroad, but was arrested by the 
Committee of Safety. He was thrown into prison, 
but was finally released. 

Mr. Carpenter remained in Memphis until tlie 
capture of the city bj' the Northern troops, and 
then entered Buell's department, running trains 
for the Government and opening the road for the 
benefit of the troops. He went to Bowling (Jircen 
in Maj. Fox's brigade, and with him went to Lou- 
isville under a flag of truce, passing through both 
armies. Returning to his native place, he made a 
short visit at his home and returned to Louisville, 
being under the direction of Gen. Rosecrans in the 
Railroad Division, and having charge of Rosecran's 
special car. He also ran a train across a spur of 
the Cumberland Mountains to get coal, and oper- 
ated in that capacity for one year. lie continued 
in the Government railroad service until the close 
of the war. While at Humboldt, Tenn., Mr. Car- 
penter was captured but made his escape. 

After the war, our subject went toGroton, Mass., 
and turned his attention to farming. After spend- 
ing two years there, he spent a winter in Florida. 
He finally purchased a manufacturing establish- 
ment at Epping, N. IL, where he manufactured 
hosiery for a number of years. From there he 
came to Louisville and put in his present machin- 
ery in 1886. He is prepared to take wool directly- 
from the farmers and work it up into the finest 
hosiery. The factory is closed in the winter, when 



its owner spends his time in Florida. Mr. and 
Mrs. Carpenter have two daughters, who are now 
traveling in Europe. The}- are Misses Aimee and 
Lucretia May. Both are finely educated, having 
had the best advantages afforded in American and 
European schools. Our suliject is a Republican in 
his political convictions and attiliations, but is in 
no sense a politician. 



OHN JUSTICE. Intelligent, thrifty, 
j wide-awake farmers form the greater part 
of the population of Stark County, and 
' among these our subject occupies a credi- 
table position. He is carrying on a good business 
as farmer and stock-raiser on section 29, Canton 
Township, and shows much skill, enterprise and 
judgment in his C)perations. He is prudent and 
cautious in his dealings, though at the same time 
lie is wide-awake in all his transactions, which are 
always fair and abovc-lioard. In all the affairs of 
life he has conducted himself so as to win the es- 
teem and trust of all with whom he associates. 

Our subject, who is an old resident of this 
county, was born February 2.3, 1831, in Hag- 
erstown, Md., and is the son of Claudius Jus- 
tice, who was also born in that State in 1794. The 
grandfather, who also bore the name of Claudius, 
was a native of France, where he was educated for 
a Catholic priest. Coining to America prior to the 
Revolutionary AVar, his plans in life were altered 
by his falling in love with Miss Katie Stoub, whom 
he married, and was in consequence excommuni- 
cated. The grandfather served through the Revo- 
lutionary War and was a farmer by occupation, 
and a slaveholder in llagerstown. He was a man of 
great wealth, and at one time lost 840,000 in Bal- 
timore through a defective title. He later joined 
the Lutheran Church and died at the advanced 
age of eighty-four years. His good wife, who 
reared a family of seven daughters and three sons, 
died when eighty-one years of age. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



45i» 



The father of our subject, being reared to farm 
pursuits, followed the occupation of an agricultur- 
ist in his native State, where he lived and died. 
He also was a patriot in the Warof 1812, and died 
at tiie good old age of ninety-one 3'eais. A Lu- 
theran in religion, he took an active part in all 
church work, and interested himself, as ever}' good 
cilizen should, in whatever concerned the welfare 
of his native place. He was a Democrat in poli- 
tics and enjoj'ed a good icputation in business 
circles. His wife, who bore the maiden name of 
Elizabeth Pollick, was also a native of Maryland, 
having been born in 1795. She became the mother 
of seven children, of whom our subject was the 
third in order of birth, his brothers and sisters be- 
ing Andrew, Catherine, Matilda, Elizaijeth and 
Susan. The wife and mother died when eigiit}^- 
live years of age, and, like her husband, wasacon- 
scientious member of the Lutheran Church, to 
which denomination she had belonged since child- 
hood. Her father, who was born in Ireland, came 
to the United States when a young man, wiiere 
he followed the profession of .school teacher until 
his decease. 

He of whom we write received his education in 
his native State, and when reaching his majority 
began life on his own account. When nine years of 
age, he was taken into the home of John Wealty, 
and when seventeen years of age, served a three- 
years apprenticeship at carriage-smithing, which 
he followed for six montiis, when he then aban- 
doned that line of work, and was engaged by the 
month for ten years by Mr. Wealty. August 1, 
1856, he came to this county, where he was em- 
ployed on farms by the month. November 13 of 
that year, he was mariied to Miss Susannah Hen- 
line, who was born in Pike Township, this county, 
May 25, 1834. She is the daughter of Samuel 
and Mary (Lieghly) Henline, natives, respectively, 
of Somerset C'ount.y, Pa., and Summit County, this 
State. The father of Mrs. Justice came to Stark 
Count}' when a young man of eighteen years, in 
1811, and her mother located in Pike Townshi|i 
with her parents when ten years of age. The latter 
is still living at the advanced age of eighty-seven 
years, and remembers the time when the city of 
Canton contained but three log cabins. After her 

23 



marriage, her parents located in a log house in the 
woods, where the father immediatelj' began the 
im})rovement of his property, upon which he re- 
mained until his death, which occurred at the age 
of lifty-six years. His father, Cornelius Henline, 
crossed the mountains from Pennsylvania to this 
State three times. He entered laud in Stark 
County, where he spent his remaining years and 
died at an advanced age. He endured man}' of 
the hardships incident to opening up a new coun- 
try, as when he located here tliere was not a house 
within sight, and the surrounding country was 
open prairie, on which not a furrow had been 
turned. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Justice have been born a fam- 
ily of nine children, four of whom are living, 
namely: Emma C, Loretta M., Ida S., and John AV. 
Those deceased are IMary E., Sarah E., S. Claudius 
(the twin of limma C), Alice L., and Erancis H. 
After his marriage, our subject lived for ten years 
on a farm in Pike Township, and in 1868 pur- 
chased his present property. The little dwelling 
which then occupied the place was supplanted in 
1874 by an attractive dwelling, and his home life 
was made cheerful and happy by the companion- 
ship of wife and children. His property, which 
includes eighty -three acres, is under excellent cul- 
tivation, and his labors as a general farmer have 
been so well rewarded, that he is able to live in 
comfort and ease. His place is stocked with the 
best of Short-horn cattle and Oxford sheep. 

May 8, 1864, our subject enlisted in the Union 
army, joining Company E. One Hundred and Six- 
ty-second Regiment, and was mustered into ser- 
vice at Camp Chase, Columbus. Thence they were 
sent to A'irgiiiia, where they joined the-Army of 
the Potomac. Our subject was soon after taken 
sick, and alter being confined in a hospital at 
Columbus for three weeks, was mustered out, De- 
cember 22, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Justice are both 
members of the Oerinan Baptist Church, and are 
conscientiously discharging the obligations of life. 
Our subject takes an active part in politics, his 
convictions placing him m the ranks of the Repub- 
lican party, hi' being a strong Protectionist. 
Few men who have begun life without other capital 
than their own mental and physical abilities have 



460 



PORTRAIT AND EIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



been more successful than Mr. Justice in acliieving 
a competence and winning the favorable opinion 
of their fellows. It is doubtful if this section of 
the State can present a higher type of the arcliitect 
of his own fortunes than he. Both liimself and 
wife are held in the liighest esteem by their neigh- 
bors and acquaintances, and by their social and 
benevolent dis[)osilions they liave become en- 
deared to all who know tiieni. 



"ifi'OIIN WEFLER. A large number of the 
prosperous agriculturists of Stark County 
are natives of lands across the sea, and are 

_ men who have begun their life's work with 
little or no capital, but whose natures have been 
so energetic, habits so industrious, and manage- 
ment so thrifty as to result in their financial suc- 
cess. One of this number is John Wefler, who is 
pleasantl}^ located in Tuscarawas Township, where 
he has a beautiful farm, consisting of twoiiundred 
and forty acres. The land is good, the residence 
and other structures well built and the appoint- 
ments such as belong to a first-class farm. 

Mr. Wefler was born in Switzerland, March 15, 
1821, and is a son of John and Susan (Glausen) 
Wefler, who were also natives of that country. 
Having heard much of the possibilities held out to 
30ung men in the New World, young Wefler, 
when sixteen years of age, emigrated to this coun- 
try, taking passage at Havre, on a sailing-vessel, 
which landed him thirty-two days later in the city of 
New York. He was accompanied on the journey 
by his parents, who immediately came to Stark 
County, where they resided for a time and later 
took up their abode in Columbiana County, where 
they made their home for several years. Our sub- 
ject, however, again came to this county, and since 
then has been classed among the successful agri- 
culturists and a man wliose word in all business 
affairs ie considered as good as his bond. 

()ursul)ject after coming to the United States 
received a fair education in both liie English and 



German languages, and having laid a good foun- 
dation, has been able to add to his store of inform- 
ation all that is necessary to enable him to carry 
on his affairs successfully, and to understand what 
is going on in the world, and'in what way he can 
best discharge the duties of citizenship. He began 
to make his ovyn way in the world immediately 
after coming hither, and when he finally took pos- 
session of his present home he found before him 
much arduous toil, as the estate was but slightly 
imi)roved, and he desired to make of it one eipial 
in value and attractiveness to those around him. 

Believing that his happiness would be increased 
by the companionship of a good woman, Mr. 
Wefler was married in 1849 to Mary A. Smith, who 
was also l)orn in Switzerland. To them has l)een 
born a family nf ten children, namely: William 
II.; Sophia, Mrs. John Spuliler; Mary A.,Mrs. JIc- 
Ferrin; Lucinda, wife of Julius Khoenle; John J.; 
Samuel F.; Eliza, the wife of Paul Wampler; Rosa, 
Mrs. Amos AVampler; Clara, and D. Wilson. 

In his political sympathy, our subject is inde- 
pendent, and in religious affairs, with his wife, is 
a member of the Reformed Church. Both are held 
in good repute, as well they may be, being upright 
in their lives and agreeable in their intercourse 
with mankind. 



-5~=^^->^^<i 



1^ AMUEL L. CORRELL. Pleasantly located 
"^^ ' in Plain Township is a home supplied with 
man}' comforts, and the center from which 
the influences of a happy domestic life 
emanates. It is occupied by the gentleman whose 
name introduces this par.agraph, who during the 
time with which he has been identified with its in- 
terests has been engaged in .agricultural pursuits, 
and has manifested tlie qualities of true manhood 
and won an honorable name among his fellow-men. 
Samuel L. Correll is ranked among liie promi- 
nent agriculturists of this section, and is de- 
scended from an old pioneer family in the county. 
He was born in llarrisbnrg, this State, December 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



461 



25, 1852, and is a son of Samuel Correll, Sr., who 
was bom March 10, 1815, In Adams County, Pa. 
Gpandfather John Correll was of German descent, 
and was also born in the Keystone State, the date 
thereof being January 5, 1788. He was a farmer 
by occupation, and July 17.. 1834, landed with his 
family in this county, our subject having in his 
possession a portion of the wagon which was used 
^)n that eventful trip. His wealth in money when 
arriving in this county consisted of #2,200, whicli 
was hid in a cliest, and carried on the front bolster 
of the wagon. This old relic of pioneer times is 
also owned by our subject. Jolni Correll pur- 
chased a farm in this county and, leasing another, 
at once began the active operations of a farmer. 
His property, however, was only partially de- 
veloped at the time of his decease, which occurred 
April 15, 1859. He was a member of the Chris- 
tian Church, and enjoyed the good-will of tlie 
people among whom he lived. I'ntil 1856, he 
voted with the Democratic party, and on the or- 
ganization of the Rei)ublican parly, joined its 
r.anks. 

Tiie grandmother of our subject bore the maiden 
name of Elizabeth Lind, and, like her husband shC) 
loo, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was born 
July 10, 1793. Her family of twelve cliildren 
bore the respective names of Jacob N., Samuel, 
John, Catherine, Fannie, Maria, Anna E., Sarah J., 
Nancy, .lercmiah, Margaret and Josiah. The 
grandmother was also a member of the Christian 
Ciiurch, and died March 1, 1875. 

The father of our subject was a young man in 
his nineteenth 3'ear on making his advent into this 
county, and, leaining the trade of a farmer, fol- 
lowed it until 1864. In 1839, he established a 
tannery in IIarrisl)urg, where he built up an ex- 
tensive trade, shipping the greater portion of his 
manufactures to Cleveland. He moved on what 
is now the farm of our subject in 1863, having 
bought the interests of the other heirs three years 
previous. There he farmed very successfully until 
1881, when, in the fall of that year, he removed 
til Cant )n, where he is living retired from active 
life. The lady to wliom he was married, Decem- 
ber 31, 1840, was Miss Lucetta DePuy; she was 
born in Pennsylvania, and was the daughter of 



John H. .DePuy, a relative of Chauncey M. De- 
pew of New York, but who spelled his name dif- 
ferentl3^ The mother of our subject was brought 
to this county by her parents when quite young, 
and by her marriage with Samuel Correll were 
born seven childi-en, of whom the following five 
aie living: John II., William W., Emma E., Julia 
A., and Samuel L. Edson L. and Lucetta are 
deceased. The wife and mother, who died Dec- 
ember 27, 1883, was a devoted member of the 
Methodist Church. 

He of whom we write remained in Harrisburg 
until ten 3'ears of age, when he received his pre- 
liminary education in the early schools, and when 
eighteen 3'ears of age entered the Mt. I^nion Col- 
lege, where he took one term of the literaiy course. 
In 1870, he again became a student in that insti- 
tution, this time entering the commercial depart- 
ment, from which he was graduated in the spring 
of 1871. When ready to establish a home of his 
own, he was married, September 22, 1881, to Miss 
Lena Wettach, who was born in Lake Township, 
this county, September 3, 1857. She was the 
daughter of Frederick J. and Magdalena (Bricker) 
Wettach, both of whom were born in the city of 
Berne, Switzerland. There the3' were married, and 
after becoming the parents of four children, came 
to .\merica, and making their way directly to this 
State, located near (ireensburgh, Summil County. 
Later, the3' took up their abode in this count3^, 
where Mr. Wettacli [ilied his trade of a cabinet- 
maker, together with the operations of his farm. 
He died in Laks Township in 1879, while his good 
wife, who is still living, makes her home in Union- 
town. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Correll liavc been born two 
children, Laura and Hugh. The old home farm, 
of which he is the proprietor, comprises one hun- 
dred and sixty-two acres of finely-improved soil, 
which he is cultivating in a most profitable man- 
ner. He devotes his attention to mixed farming, 
and keeps on his place a good grade of all kinds 
of stock. He has on his estate a large frame .resi- 
dence, which is convenientl3' fitted up, together 
with a good barn, granary, and all the n(?cessary 
buildings to be found on a first-class estate. He 
has carried on his work with untiring industry. 



462 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RfX'ORD. 



which has been seconded by sound judgment in re- 
gard to business matters, and he has, therefore, 
been much prospered. His political attiliations are 
with the Republicans, and we always find him fa- 
voring every movement that will in any way 
benefit tlie township and country. 

The Corroll family, which is one of the most 
prominent in the county, has an organized re- 
union every year. 






IKOKGE M. SNYDER. The most note- 
(irtliy footwear emporium in the city of 
^^:J/| Massillon, where can always be found an 
extensive and ver\' complete assortment of every- 
thing in the footwear line, from the daintiest 
lady's kid shoe to the most durable brogan and 
strong men's walking shoe, is that of George M. 
Snj'der. He was born on Main Street, Ma.ssillon, 
Ohio, on the 22d of September, 1843, and his fa- 
ther, Fred II. Snyder, was a native of Gerraan^y, 
horn on the Rhine River. The grandfather. 
George M. Snyder, w.is also a native of Germany, 
but brought his family to America about 18.30, and 
settled in Massillon, Ohio, where he followed the 
wagon-maker's trade. This business he followed 
until quite .aged, when he retired. When about 
eighty years of age, he was killed by Ix'ing thrown 
from a wagon. 

"When about fourteen years of age, the father of 
our subject came with his parents to ^lassillon and 
here learned the carpenter's trade under Hamilton 
Schearer. Later, he was engaged in contracting 
and building and erected some of the early busi- 
ness houses and residences. He afterward started a 
sawmill, planing-mill, and sash, door and blind 
factory under the firm name of Snyder, Mong & 
Co., and he was at the head of the business. Here 
he received an injury from which his death resulted 
in 18.58, when he was butfoi'ty-two years of age. He 
was truly a self-made man, for he had very limited 
educational advantages and was early tiirown on 
his own resources as his parents were poor. Never- 



theless, he became a well-posted man and a fine 
mathematician. He was an active member of the 
German Lutheran Church and a leader of the choir. 
In politics, he was a Republican and was Trustee 
of the village of Massillon. His wife, whose 
maiden name was Catherine .Schriver, was born in 
Hanover, German}', and came with her parents to 
America when a little girl. They died in this coun- 
try. Mrs. Snyder now resides at the old home on 
North Street, and although past seventy-four years 
of age, time has dealt leniently with her and she is 
hale and hearty. Nine children were the result of 
this union, seven sons and two daughters, of whom 
the sons are still living, as follows: Ered H., 
George M. (our subject), Jacob, Henry, Charles F., 
John B. and Benjamin L. 

George M. Sn3-der, the third in order of birth of 
the above-mentioned children, was reared in Mas- 
sillon and received his education in the Union 
Schools until he was fifteen years of age. He was 
then apprenticed at shoemaking under Sausser & 
Wert, and remained with this company for three 
years. After this, he was in Mansfield, Ohio, for 
four months, where he worked at his trade, and in 
1862 he was employed by John Snyder, with whom 
he remained until the spring of 1863. He then 
bought out Mr. Snyder, paying 8176 for the stock, 
$17.5 of which he borrowed. His business increased 
rapidly and he soon employed five men. In 1863, 
he was in the Ohio National Guards and on the 
25th of May, 1864, he was mustered into the 
United States service in Company A, One Hundred 
and Sixty-second Ohio National Guards, locking 
up his shop and shouldering his musket. 

Returning from the army, he resumed business, 
and .as his trade increased he moved to Erie Street 
and employed seven men. The same spring, he 
embarked in the boot and shoe business, employed 
ten and twelve men and now conducts the laigest 
store here. In 1867, he built his brick store and 
in the following year located in it and conducted 
a reliable business. He has built up a large and 
fasliionable trade, and there are few houses whose 
wares are held in such high and well-merited es- 
teem by an appreciative and discriminating public. 
In 1887, Mr. Snyder built his residence at No. 320 
East Main Street, and has one of the most lovely 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



463 



and attractive homes in the city. He also owns 
other real estate and a farm of eiglit acres in Perry 
Township. 

His marriage to Jliss Jlelenda Wagoner, a native 
of tjiis county, occurred on the 2;jth of May, 1865. 
Her parents, Cliristian .and Susan Wagoner, were 
old settlers here and the father is still living on 
the old farm. The mother died December 18, 
1891. Nine ihildren have Ijeen born to our sub- 
ject and wife as follows: Anna C. and Nellie 
J., at home; George C, who died when fourteen 
months old; Harry H., with his father in the store 
and a graduate of the High School; Otto P., a ma- 
chinist with Hess, Snyder & Co.; Walter D., at 
home; Eva V.; Thomas II., who died when fourteen 
months old, and Freddie H. Mr. Snyder was a 
member of the City Council from the First Ward 
for seven years, or until he moved out of the ward, 
and was Pi'esideut of the Board for two years. He 
was on different committees and was active in 
other work to improve the city, the present sewer 
system being due to him and James H. McLain. 
Mr. Snyder was a member of the School Board for 
three years and then declined to serve longer. He 
is Director and Treasurer of the Massillon Ceme- 
tery Association, which oflice he lias held for 
nine years. He is one of the most prominent 
and successful business men of the place and is 
highly regarded by all. A member of the Luth- 
eran Church he has been a Trustee in the same 
since 1867. He was Chairman of the Building 
Committee and was Sunday-school Superintendent 
for a number of years. In politics, he is a st.anch 
supporter of tiie principles of the Republican party 
and has been a delegate to county and State con- 
ventions. 



eHAHl.K.S W. 1J( )EPPER. As a conspicuous 
example of success in liusiness pursuits in 
Alliance, the Solid Steel Company presents 
a notable instance, its business having steadily ex- 
panded from year to year since its inception. 



Much of its success and high position in commer- 
cial circles is due to the tireless efforts and excel- 
lent judgment of Mr. Roepper, who for ten years 
has occupied the position of (Jeneral Sinierintend- 
ent. His thorough knowledge of all the details of 
the business, superior ability, and constant en- 
deavors have resulted in a rapid increase of busi- 
ness in every department, until now the establish- 
ment reflects the highest credit upon the citj- and 
furnishes a striking example of the possibilities of 
business success in Alliance. 

Mr. Roepper comes of distinguished parentage, his 
father, William T., having been a celebrated scien- 
tist, and during the latter part of his life w.as Pro- 
fessor in the Lehigh Universit}-. He emigrated to 
America from his native country, Prussia, about 
1830, and located in Bethlehem, Pa., where, many 
years later, he closed his eyes to the scenes of 
earth. He had been highly educated in his native 
land, and his tastes being in the direction of scien- 
tific studies, he naturally made a specialty of that 
branch of learning, in which he gained wide dis- 
tinction. He was fortunate in having a father 
who labored lovingly to impart to him a broad 
knowledge of scientific subjects, and his mother, 
who had been educated at the Ladies' Moravian 
Seminary, at Bethlehem, Pa., was also fitted to be his 
teacher and instill in his mind a love of learning. 
The mother of our subject, formerly Miss B. A. 
Luckenbach, was born in Goshen, Ohio, in 1819. and 
still survives, making her home in Bethlehem, Pa. 
Her father, Aliraham Luckenbach, was a celebrated 
^lissionary, and during the first part of the present 
century labored to spread the (;osi)el among tlie 
Delaware Indians. 

When fifteen years old, our subject was appren- 
ticed to learn the trade of a machinist or moulder, 
and so rapid was the progress he made, that when 
eighteen, he became chemist of the Lehigh Zinc 
C'ompan3% at Bethlehem, Pa. During that time he 
took a course «f three years' study in iron and 
steel metallurgy and chemistry, while he also sup- 
ported himself by his position as chemist. At the 
age of twenty-three, he became chemist to the 
Bethlehem Iron Company, one of the most famous 
works in the East. Afterward he assumed the 
management of the Blast Furnace, at Dover, N. J., 



464 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



which he filled satisfactorily for a number of years, 
resigning it to take charge of the sleel works of 
the Springfield (111.) Iron Company. 

In the fall of 1882, Mr. Roepper came to Alli- 
ance, where, as above stated, he has since had 
charge of the works of the Solid Steel Company, 
in which he is a stockholder and Director. He is a 
thorough-going business man and has made many 
friends wherever he has been, being especially in- 
fluential among iron manufacturers. He is a mem- 
ber of a number of prominent associations, among 
them the American Institute of Mining Kngineers; 
Berzeliu's Chemical Society of Yale College; the 
Chemical Societ3- of Lehigh University; the linglish 
Iron and Steel Institute; the German Iron and Steel 
Institute; United Stales Naval Institute, of Annap- 
olis, and German Engineers' Institute, of Germany. 



"illOIIN POORMAN. The life of a farmer 
m.iy lie, in a certain way, uneventful, but it 
is not therefore of necessity devoid of op- 
portunity for well-doing in a financial, mor- 
al, intellectual or civil sense. On the contrar}', it 
is as replete with chances for advancement as any 
calling that can be chosen, and is superior to many 
in this respect. This has been proved in the life 
of Mr. Poorman, who has made a good home for 
himself, has reared his family to honor and useful- 
ness, and gained a good reputation as a man. 
He is one of the farmers and stock-raisers of Stark 
County, and is pleasantly located on section 28, 
Tuscarawas Township, owning one hundred and 
ten acres of land with good buildings. 

The parents of our subject, Peter and Mary 
(Richard) Poorman, were natives of Pennsylvania, 
and his maternal uncle, Charles Richard, is said 
to have been a soldier in both the Revolu- 
tionary War and that of 1812. In the fall 
of 1828, the father of our subject, with his 
family, came overland with a team and wagon to 
this county', and located on the farm where our 
subject is living at the present time. During their 



first j'ears here, the country round about was quite 
wild, but each year saw some changes for the bet- 
ter and increased the facilities for intercourse with 
Other parts of the world. The family, which was 
a large one, now numbers four children: Susan, 
Mrs. Jacob Stair; Rachel, widow of Jacob 
Huraberger; Charlotte, the widow of Joseph Has- 
sler; and .John, our subject. 

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch, 
was born in Franklin County, Pa., February 7, 
1825, and during his early years conned his lessons 
in a log schoolhouse with a shake roof and 
puncheon floor. He remained at home until he 
was of age, then began the battle of life for him- 
self and in a few years secured a companion and 
helpmate. His marriage to Miss Caroline Kelker 
was solemnized November 25, 1844, and by her he 
became the father of eight children, of whom the 
following seven are living: J.ieob L., Margaret 
A., Peter L., William II., Franklin R., Charles E., 
and Clara F. (Mrs. Lemuel Stahl). The wife and 
mother departed this life in 1871, and the lady 
whom Mr. Poorman chose as his second com- 
panion was Mrs. Naomi A. Angstadt, the daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Anna (Birchficld) Slusser. 
Mrs. Poorman, is a native of this county, hav- 
ing been born April 10, 183i). Her father is 
said to have been the first white child born within 
the limits of Tuscurawas Township. He was a 
well-to-do farmer, who reared a family of eight 
children, four of whom are deceased. Those liv- 
ing are Mar^' J., James B., Mrs. Poorman, and 
Leonard P. 

By her first marriage with Benjamin Maxhiiner, 
Mrs. Poorman became the mother of three child- 
ren: Leonard, Harvey and Nannie, the latter the 
wife of John Wetzel. By her second union with 
Daniel Angstadt, she had one son, Robert R. 

Our subject is well informed regarding local 
affairs, and his public spirit and enterprise corres- 
pond with his intelligence. He has served six 
years as County Commissioner and has been Trus- 
tee and Clerk of Tuscarawas Township, and in 
1890 was elected Land Appraiser of Tuscarawas 
Township During elections he casts a Demo- 
cratic vote, and has labored earnestly to advance 
the agricultural interests of his township. Relig- 



PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



465 



iously, he is a prominent member of the Lutheran 
Church, while his good wife is identified with the 
Methodist Episcopal denomination. 



Ii-^i"i^il^%!^ 



ll[ ^ ENRY A. CAVNAH is the General Manager 

fTji^i of the Bucher & Gibbs Plow Company, of 
/■^^^ Canton. The works of this company were 
(^) established in 1864 by John R. Bucher, and 
were operated under a partnership name until 
1886, when the business was incorporated under 
the laws of the State of Ohio, with a capital stock 
of $2.')0,(1()0. This has since been increased and the 
capital stock of the company' is now 1350,000. 
The plant is located on East Seventh Street, near 
the track of the Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne ct Chicago 
Railroad and the Cleveland & Canton Railroad, 
and they do a large and constantly increasing 
business in the manufacture of plows. As the goods 
that they turn out are of excellent workmanship, 
they find .a ready sale, and this industry has be- 
come one of the leading enterprises of Canton. 

Mr. Cavnah is a native of Canton. He was born 
June 23, 1843, and is a son of Samuel Cavnah, who 
was one of the pioneer manufacturers of this city. 
In 1865, he removed to Indiana and engaged in 
the manufacture of farm implements in Bourbon 
until his death, which occurred on the 16th of 
May, 1890. His wife bore the maiden name of 
Mary Becher and was a daughter of Henry Becher. 

Our subject was educated in his native city, 
and at the age of eighteen enlisted in Company I, 
Sixty-fourth Ohio Regiment, the Hon. John Sher- 
man commanding the brigade,which was assigned to 
the Army of the Cumberland. He served for four 
years and participated in the battles of Shiloli, 
Stone River, Chickaniauga, Mission Hidge, Franic- 
lin, Nashville and the Atlanta campaign. He was 
ever found at his post of duty, valiantly defend- 
ing the old flag. At the close of the war, he was 
honorably discharged in Nashville, in October, 
1865. 

Mr. Cavnali tiien went to I iidiana, whither his pa- 



rents had removed in the meantime, and remained 
in the Hoosier State until 1869. He then returned 
to Canton and became associated with the firm of 
H. H. Myer &. Brother, and in 1875 entered the 
employ of the Bucher Plow Company as book- 
keeper, rendering efficient service in that capacity 
until 1881, when he bought an interest in the con- 
cern. Soon afterward, he was made Secretary and 
Treasurer, which offices he held until January, 
1892, when he became General Manager. 

Mrs. Cavnah was in her maidenhood ]Miss Sallie, 
daughter of Robert Van Horn, and she became the 
wife of our subject July 19, 1876. By their union 
have been born four children, viz.: Howard E., 
Olive, Harker and Karl. 

Tiie family has a pleasant home on South 
Market Street. Mr. Cavnah is a member of Nim- 
isilla Lodge No. 39, L O. O. F. He is alsoa M.ason, 
having attained the degree of Knight Templar, and 
also belongs to Campand Post No. 25, G. A. R. The 
success of the Bucher A Gibbs Plow Company dur- 
ing the past few years has been largely due to the 
untiring efforts and efficient m.-inagement of Mr. 
Cavnah, who is a man of pronounced business 
ability. During the late war, he proved himslf a 
faithful soldier, and he is alike true to his country 
in times of peace, discharging every duty of citi- 
zenship with fidelitj'. His honorable, straightfor- 
ward life has won him an enviable position in 
both business and social circles. He is a standi 
Republican. 



C. M( DOWELL, one of the prominent 
fanners and old settlers of Stark County, 
Ohio, is well known in this vicinity and 
is everywhere respected for his sterling 
worth and upright, honorable career. He was 
born in Tuscarawas Township, Stark County, 
Ohio, on the 26th of November, 1820, and was 
tlie fourth in order of birth of thirteen chil- 
dren born to James and Mary (Craig) McDowell, 




466 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



both natives of Washington County, Pa. The 
paternal grandfather, a native of Ireland, was 
married in his native country, and at an early 
day crossed to this side of the ocean. He located 
in Washington County, Pa., and there passed the 
closing scenes of his life. He reared five sons, four 
of whom made permanent homes in the Buckeye 
State, two settling in Wayne and two in Stark 
County. 

.James McDowell was reared in the county of iiis 
birth, and was there married to Miss Ci'aig. After 
residing there until 1816, the productive soil of 
Ohio tempted them hither, and they made a set- 
tlement in Tuscarawas Township, Stark County, 
entering one hundred and sixty acres of Govern- 
ment land. On this Mr. McDowell erected a rude log 
house, hung a quilt at the door, and in this primi- 
tive manner began his career as a pioneer. On 
this farm the worthy couple passed a busy and 
contented life, the motiier dying when forty-nine, 
and the father when sixtv-six j-ears of age. Their 
family consisted of tliirteen children, six sons and 
seven daughters, eleven of whom grew to manhood 
and womanhood, and four of whom are now living, 
as follows: Mary, widow of Joseph Fulton, of Sid- 
ney, Ohio; Lettie, widow of AVilliam Winter, resides 
in Kansas; and Nancy, wife of William Lyon, makes 
her home in Wa3'ne County, Ohio. 

The subject of our sketch is the only one of the 
sons now living. He was reared amid the rude 
surroundings of pioneer life, and grew to sturdy 
manhood upon terms of familiaritj- with all kinds 
of farm labor. In boyhood he attended the log 
schoolhouse and after growing up he remained 
with his parents until his marriage, which occurred 
on the 18th of May, 1843 to Miss Margaret Porter, 
a native of Waj-ne Countj', Ohio. The sad event 
of her death took place on the 30th of October, 1870, 
when still a comparatively young woman. Six 
children were the fruits of this union, tliree sons 
and three daugliters, as follows: Madison, Elva, 
Logan and Era are deceased. Orrin resides at home 
with his father; and Eva, wife of E. E. Sliilling, re- 
sides in Lawrence Township, this county. 

When our subject located on his present propert}', 
it had a very different appearance from its now pros- 
perous aspect, very little having been cleared and. 



the only buildings were a dilapidated brick house 
and a log barn. This is one of the finest farms in 
the township, and he erected his present com- 
modious and substantial two-story residence in 
1870, at a cost of 13,000. He has a fine bank barn, 
also other necessary buildings, and everything 
about the place indicates that a progressive hand 
is at the helm. He is engaged in stock-raising in 
connection with farming and is still a hard-work- 
ing man, his early habits still clinging to him al- 
thougii well-to-do. He is an active Republican 
in politics, and a wortliy member of the Presby 
terirai Cliureh. 



4^ 



OSES CLAY is the most extensive land- 
holder in Jackson Township, Stark County, 
and is a product of the section in which 
•*' he now resides, for here he was born No- 

vember 27, 1823. Ilis father, Isaac Clay, was a 
Pennsylvanian, and came direct from his native 
State to Stark County, Ohio, in 1804, at which 
time Canton consisted of about six houses. He 
took up eighty acres of land in Plain Township, 
on which he remained until 1812, when he re- 
moved to Jackson Townshii), purchasing one hun- 
dred and sixty acres of land on section 29, for 
which he paid ^2 per acre. There he erected a log 
cabin, 12x14 feet, and that farm was the scene of 
his active labors for the remainder of his life. He 
was a Whig in politics. His death, which occurred 
in 1852, was deeply lamented by a large circle of ac- 
quaintances. His father, David Cla}', was a Penn- 
sylvanian also, of Welsh descent. In 1810, Isaac 
Clay was married in Plain Township to Miss Mary 
Pennock, who was born in Connecticut, and re- 
moved witii her parents to A'irginia when she was 
a small girl. Her father, William Pennock, is sup- 
posed to have been born in Connecticut and was 
descended from English ancestors. Ilis wife lived 
to be ninety-six ^'ears of age. 

To Isaac and Mary Clay seven ciiildren were 
born, six sons and one daughter, all of whom at- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



467 



tained manhood and womanhood and reared fam- 
ilies of their own: William, John, Isaac, Solomon; 
Alice, wife of Thomas Ilartness, of Portland, Ore- 
gon; Moses, our subject; and Oliver, of Portland. 
The scholastic education of Moses Clay was ac- 
quired in tlie old log schoolhouse of earlj- times, 
in which he acquired a fair knowledge of the 
" three R's." Like a dutiful son, he remained 
with his parents until he attained his majority, and 
on the 25th day of August, 1850, was married to 
Miss Catherine Madison, who was born in Balti- 
more, Md., August 9, 1832. Otis Madison, her 
father, was born in New Hampshire, and was a 
"delineator," being the first man in America to 
invent a system of cutting gentlemen's clothing 
by rule. He did an extensive business in New 
York City, Buffalo and Detroit. He was excep- 
tionall}' skilled in his calling, and not oul}' trav- 
eled extensively throughout tlie United States, but 
also went to France twice in the interests of his 
business. For a time he was editor of a men's 
fashion-plate journal and was widely known. He 
died in Buffalo, N. Y., at the age of sixty-five 
years. He was married to Elizabeth Boy den, of 
South Carolina, in which State she was reared and 
where she owned a number of slaves at one time. 
Her father was a lawyer of considerable promi- 
nence and died from the rupture of a blood-vessel 
while pleading a case. 

Mrs. Clay was left motherless at the age of six 
years, and two years later came to Massillon to 
make her home with her uncle, Noah Madison. 
That gentleman was born in 1801 and died in 
1886. He was the first maker of edged tools in 
Stark County, and was a gentleman of prominence. 
Mrs. Clay was one of the pupils in the first Union 
School in Ohio, and received a good education. 
She is a lady of exceptional intelligence, and from 
her Southern ancestors inherits that ease, grace and 
dignity for which the women of the Sunny South 
are famous. She is a devoted wife and mother 
and an earnest and faithful friend. 

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Claj' located 
on their present farm, where their five sons and 
four daugliters were born: Mary, who died at the 
.age of three months; Ella, wife of Jackson Pon- 
tius, the Superintendent of the Infirmary of Stark 



County; Harvey; Otis M.; Frank, who lives on the 
old Isaac C'laj' homestead in Jackson Township; 
Edward, of Canton; Emma, wife of W. J. Pon- 
tius; ISIary D. and Marshall F. Mr. Claj- owns a 
valuable farm of three hundred and fifty acres in 
Jackson Township, which is the largest piece of 
land in one body owned by a single individual 
in the township. It is one of the most fertile tracts 
in the county, and under iMr. Clay's able man- 
agement, it has been made to yield abundant har- 
vests. He is a practical general farmer and stock- 
raiser, and IS deservedlj' ranked among the fore- 
most agriculturists of his section. Of late years 
he has taken much interest m the raising of Jer- 
sey cattle, of which breed he now has seventeen 
head. He is a member of the Grange, and politi- 
cally is a Republican. In disposition, he is a 
genial, whole-souled gentleman, and the high 
esteem in which he is held by his neighbors and ac- 
quaintances speaks in eloquent terms as to his 
many amiable and sterling traits and character- 
istics. 



m^m 



\^^ 



]li OSEVH A. LINVILLE is Secretary of the 
C. Aultman & Co. Manufactory, of Canton, 
Ohio. He was born in Lancaster County, 
Pa., near Gap Postoffice, on the 27tli of Ajjril, 
1843, and was the second of four children, wliose 
parents were William D. and Margaret (Hoar) Lin- 
ville. The paternal grandfather, Benjamin l,in- 
ville, was of Scotch and English extraction. He 
was a carpenter and farmer by occupation, .and in 
religious faith was a (Quaker. The Hoar famil}- is 
of German and English descent. In 1845, AVilliam 
Linville and his family removed in a w.agoii to 
Champaign County, Ohio, locating upon a farm, 
where the parents of our subject still reside, the 
father being in his seventy-sixth year, while the 
mother is seventy-one years of age. They are 
members of the Society of Friends, and are highly 
respected people. 

The subject of tiiis sketch was only about two 



468 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAI'HICAL RECORD. 



3'ears old when brought by his parents to the Buck- 
eye State. The days of his boj'hood and youth 
were spent upon liis father's farm, and in the com- 
mon scliools he acquired his early education. At 
the age of seventeen, he left tlie parental roof and 
entered the Normal Scliooi in Urliana,Ohio, subse- 
cpiently teaching school during tlie winter season. 
In 1876, our subject entered theemploj'of C. Ault- 
man & Co., as Local Agent at Urbana. The same 
j'ear he traveled in Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota 
in their interest. In 1877, he accepted the general 
agency of the company for Illinois with headquar- 
ters four 3'ears at (Talesburg and two years at Peoria. 
January 1, 1883, he removed to Canton, became a 
stoekliolder in the company, took charge of the 
sales department, superintended the general and 
local agents, and managed the disposal of the com- 
pany's products. In 1887, he was elected Secre- 
tary of the company, which responsible position 
he still holds. The company engages in the manu- 
facture of threshing-machines, stackers and saw- 
mills, and has an extensive trade, selling in almost 
every State in the Union, and also sliipping largely 
to foreign countries. The works, grounds and 
lumber-yards occupy tvventy-flve acres. 

On the 19th of February, 1867, Mr. Linville was 
united in marriage witii Miss Martha .1. Guthridge, 
of Cleveland, Oliio, a native of Ciiampaign County, 
and a daughter of .lohn C. and Abigail O. (Tuth- 
ridge. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Linville have been born 
four children, as follows: Nettie, now the wife of 
.L Arthur Coburn, of Canton; Benjamin .1.. Ilattie 
M. and Estelle. 

During the late war, Mr. Linville manifested his 
lo3'alty to the Government by enlisting in 1864, 
and was subsequently elected Orderly-Sergeant of 
Company F, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Ohio 
Infantry, under the command of Col. A. B. Arm- 
strong. He was disabled in the service, and was 
honorabl}' discharged. He now holds membership 
with Canton Post No. 25, G. A. R. He has al- 
waj'S taken an interest in political affairs, and be- 
ing a stalwart Repulilican, is I'eeognized as an in- 
fluential member of the party in the State. He 
served as Alderman from the First Ward, and is 
now President of the City Council. In addition 
to his other business interests, he is Vice-president 



of the Gold Ball Mining Companj-, and in 1891 
was President of the Board of Trade of Canton. 

Mr. LinviHe is a man of excellent business abil- 
ity, sagacious and far-sighted, and 1)3' his own 
efforts has worked his wa3' upward to the respon- 
sible position he now fills. He ranks high in busi- 
ness circles, and is regarded by all who know him 
as an honorable, upright ni-an. 



/^HARLES O. HEGGEM. There is in the 
(l\ r 'j"S''"'*s ^^^''''1 only one kind of man who 
^^<7 can successfully combat the many disad- 
vantages .ind trials and come boldly' to the front, 
and that is the man of superior intelligence and 
force of character, one who is also the ha|)py pos- 
sessor of that energy that seems somehow to be 
the magic wand that trnnsforms a poor beginning 
into a flattering ending. To this class lielongs 
Charles O. Ileggem, who is General Superintendent 
of Russell it Co.'s Works. 

Our subject is a native of Norway, having been 
born in Bergen, November 29, 1851, and is the 
son of Ole Ileggeni, who was born about one hun- 
dred and fifty miles north of that place, April 9, 
1832. Grandfather Axel Ileggera was born in 
Bergenstift in 1787, and was a farmer by occupa- 
tion. He was a soldier in the war with the Swedes 
from 1807 to 1814. The father of our subject was 
a pattern-maker in the shops of his native place. 
He emigrated to America with his family' in 1868, 
and took up his residence in Chicago, where he 
still resides. The maiden name of his wife, the 
mother of our subject, was .lohanna Mucklebust; 
she was also a native of Bergenstift, and was a 
daughter of Knut Mucklebust, who was a farmer 
near Bergen. 

Charles O. Ileggem of this sketch was the eld- 
est in the parental family' of ten children, five of 
whom are deceased. He was educated in the Latin 
schools of his native place, and when fourteen 
years of age served three years' apprenticeship in 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



469 



the Bergen Machine Works. He accompanied liis 
parents on their removal to America in 1808, sailing 
from Slavanger on the sailing-vessel "Atlanta" on 
its first trip to (Quebec. Tiienee tiiey went to Chi- 
cago, where onr subject was employed in the Chro- 
matic Printing Press Works for two years. From 
there he came to Salem, this State, and engaged for 
a number of years with the Buckeye Engine Com- 
pany, and when leaving Its employ occupied the 
position of foreman. 

In the spring of 1884, our subject came to Mas- 
sillon as foreman of Russell it Co.'s jNIachine 
Shops, serving as such for several years, when he 
was gradually advanced to Superintendent of the 
entire establishment. Since entering their employ, 
the firm has engaged in the building of an auto- 
matic engine, on which our subject has made 
many improvements and patents, which he has 
turned over to the interests of Russell & Co. 

In 1872, Charles O. Ileggem and Miss Rebecca 
Boe were united in marriage. The lady was born 
in Stavanger, Norway, and came with her parents. 
Knut and Mary Boe, to Salem in 1870, where her 
father was engaged in the manufacture of stoves. 
To our subject and his wife have been born three 
children: Oscar E., Alfred G. and Chalmer R. Mr, 
Ileggem, socially, is a Knight Templar, being Gen- 
eralissimo of Massillon Commandery No. 4. He 
belongs to Clinton Lodge No. 47, K. and A. M., 
and to Hiram Chapter Royal Arch Masons. In 
politics, he is a true-blue Republican, and occu- 
pies a high position in the American Society of 
Mechanical Engineers, of which he has lieen a 
member since 1889. 



JACOB HAWK is one of the leading (ier- 
man citizens of Canton, and a man of ster- 
ling worth, which is indicated by the f.act 
that for a quarter of a century he has been 
an employe in the C. Aultman & Co.'s Works. 
He was born in Bavaria, (ierniany, June 27, 1825, 
and is a son of Michael P. and Elizal)eth Hawk, 



both of whom were natives of Germany. In 1832, 
they bade good-bye to the Fatherland, and sailed 
for America, landing in New York City" after a 
voyage of forty days upon a sailing-vessel. From 
the Eastern metropolis, they came direct to Stark 
County, Ohio, locating in Sugar Creek Township, 
where Mr. Hawk carried on general farming and 
stock-raising until his death, which occurred in 
1855. His wife survived him seven ^-ears, when 
she too passed away. They were the parents of four 
sons, but our subject is the only survivor and the 
youngest of the family. 

.Jacob Hawk was a lad of seven summers when 
he came with his parents to Ohio. He attended 
school two3'ears in his native land, and after com- 
ing to Stark County, conned his lessons in a log 
schoolhouse, such as were common on the fron- 
tier. His training at farm work was not as limited 
as his educational privileges, and he remained at 
home assisting in the cultivation of his father's 
land until he had attained his majorit3\ As a 
companion and helpmate on life's journey, he 
chose Miss Maria Lebold, of Tuscarawas County, 
Ohio, their union being celebrated in 1846. The 
ladj' is a native of Germany and a daughter of 
Conrad Lebold. 

The young couple began their domestic life in 
Sandy Township, Tuscarawas County, where Mr. 
Hawk, with characteristic energy, carried on gen- 
eral farming until 1861. He came that year to 
Canton and entered the C. Aultman it Co.'s 
Works, with which he has been connected up to 
the present time. He possesses much mechanical 
genius, and can adapt himself to the work per- 
formed in almost every department. He has made 
man}' inventions for the improvement of the dif- 
ferent kinds of machineiy used in the works, and 
has secured some twelve patents. 

I'nto Mr. and Mrs. Hawk have been born a son 
and daughter, Philii) and Elizabeth. Our subject 
is a member of the Methodist P]piscopal Church, 
and his family are Evangelical Lutherans. They 
reside at No. 142 South Cleveland Avenue, and 
their pleasant home is the abode of hospitality. In 
addition to his home, Mr. Hawk owns consideiable 
farming land in the State of Kansas. As his finan- 
cial resources have increased, he has made judi- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



cious investments, and now owns some valuable 
real estate. In politics, he is conservative, and 
generally votes with the Republican pait^y, by 
which he was elected Alderman. He was a mem- 
ber of the City Council at tlie time of the con- 
struction of the Canton Water Works. Mr. Hawk 
is a man of more than average ability, and is an in- 
telligent and well-informed man, popular among 
his business associates and in social circles. 



i>-^^<^=^ 



&ENRY HOUTZ is well known and honored 
• in Stark County, not only as a represen- 
tative of the family" whose name has been 
connected with this portion of Ohio from 

the very earliest days of its settlement to the pres- 
ent, but for the part he has taken in its develop- 
ment and for hi? worth as a man and a citizen. 
He is one of the prominent and wealthy farmers 
of Canton Townshii), where he has a well-regulated 
farm of eight^'-five acres on section 2. He is a 
native of the county, born here in pioneer times 
December 24, 1843, on his father's homestead on 
section 23. 

He of whom we write from early boyhood has 
been engaged in agricultural pursuits and has 
borne an honorable part in developing the farm- 
ing interests of this township, and now is the 
proprietor of an excellent farm. He received the 
rudiments of his education in the district school, 
but gained the greater part of his knowledge by 
reading and experience. When twenty-three years 
of age, he began life for himself, and September 
10, 1865, was married to Miss Susannah L. Bren- 
ner, who was born .September 11,1844, in Lan- 
caster County, Pa. They became the parents 
of one child, a daughter, Mary, who married Al- 
bert Eigher and resides in Canton. 

After his marriage, Mr. Iloutz of this sketcli 
rented land for a time, aiid after living for five 
years on the old Brenner homestead came to this 
section in 1874, where he purchased land, and the 
following year built his laesent Lirge brick resi- 



dence and barn, the latter of which is 75x44 feet 
in dimensions. His estate is pleasantly located 
just two miles from the Court House, and is in 
a good condition as i-egards its tillage and pro- 
ductiveness. Mr. Houtz is a man of progressive 
ideas and good business ability, to which is added 
an amount of energy which carries his enterprises 
forward rapidly, and which has increased liis 
worldly- prosperity. He is engaged in mixed farm- 
ing and enjoys a high personal standing through- 
out the county, and has many true friends among 
his fellow-citizens, with whose interests his own 
have been identified for so long a period. 

Politically, our subject is a Republican, but in 
all local issues votes independently. In an early 
day, he operated a threshing-machine on the 
ground that is now occupied by buildings in the 
heart of Canton, and has thus been an eye-witness 
of the wonderful development of this section, 
which he has aided to bring about by hard labor. 
He has always displayed a zealous inteiest in the 
welfare of his township, and his honesty and 
truthfulness have never been questioned, and in 
all business transactions his word is as good as his 
bond. 






|EV. GEORGE W. BROWN, of Stark 
County-, was born at Bascom, Seneca 
i45;\\\ County, Ohio, on the 13th of December, 
\^ 1840, to the union of Jacob C. and Sarah 
(Price) Brown. The father was a native of Louis- 
ville, Ohio, born about 1814, and was of German 
extraction. His early life was passed on a farm 
in Stark County, and he was there married to our 
subject's mother, who was also a native of Stark 
County, born about 1817. Early in life the father 
learned the trade of plasterer, bricklayer and stone- 
mason, and probably moved to Seneca County, 
Ohio, shortly after marriage, for two children, 
older than our subject, were born there. 

The mother's health failing and the father find- 
ing it hard to provide for his family, our subject 



PORTRAIT AND IJIOGRAPIIICAL RECORD. 



471 



was thrown on his own resources at an early day 
and went to live with a farmer, Daniel Torabaugh, 
who resided near West Independence, Hancock 
County, Ohio. Soon after going there, his mother 
died. At that time he was about seven j-cars of 
age and he was brought up bj^ Mr. and Mrs. 
Tombaugh, as was also his youngest brother, 
Alvin M.. who was then four years old. His home 
remained in Hancock County until 1855. and as 
Mr. Tombaugh had no children of his own, he was 
very anxious tliat our subject and his brother 
should be well educated. He planned that the 
former should be a minister and tiie latter a doc- 
tor, and the boys were given every advantage the 
common schools of Hancock County afforded. 

AVhen young Brown was fifteen years of age, 
Mr. Tombaugh sold out and moved to Stark 
County, Oliio, and located three-fourths of a mile 
from Louisville, where our subject attended school, 
part of the time in the countrj' schools and part 
of the time in town. He there laid the founda- 
tion for his subsequent prosperous career, for he 
received a thorough training in the common 
branches. In the year 1858 or 1859, he went 
to Greensburgh, Ohio, with a view to preparing 
for the ministry. Previous to this, when sixteen 
years of age, he became identified with the Evan- 
gelical Association at Good Hope Churcli, and he 
now in good earnest began to think of preparing 
for the ministry. In the summer of 1860 and fall 
and winter of that year and the following year, 
he taught school in what is now known as the 
Snyder District. 

In 1861, Mr. Brown went to Bryan, AVilliams 
County, Ohio, to visit a sister, Mrs. Eliza Green, 
and while there the call came for seventy-five 
thousand volunteers. On the 20th of April, 1861, 
at the first opportunity, he enlisted in Company 
G, Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, and was mustered 
in at Cleveland, where bis company remained a 
few weeks. From there they went to West 'Vir- 
ginia, and our subject was first under fire at 
Phillipiii, under Col. Steadman, who afterward be- 
came (General. The next engagement was at 
Bealington, under Gen. Milroy, and they followed 
the Confederates without tlieir usual supply of 
clothing and provisions. .\t night they had noth- 



ing but a piece of hardtack. Our subject suc- 
ceeded in getting a rubber overcoat which partly 
covered his body, for it rained all night. They 
started after the Confederates the next morning 
without breakfast and overtook them at Carrick's 
Ford, where, after a hard-fought battle, the enemy 
was overpowered. They captured the rebel sup- 
ply, but got nothing to eat until noon next daj'. 

Returning to Bealington, our subject suffered 
more with hunger than he did during any subse- 
quent time he was in service. Soon after the 
company returned home, at the expiration of the 
term of enlistment, our subject went to Williams 
County, where he remained four weeks. He then 
rc-enlisted for three years in Company K, Sixty- 
eighth Ohio Infantiy, and went into camp at 
Camp Latta, at Napoleon, Ohio. Later, he was at 
Camp Chase and then at Ft. Donelson, where he 
suffered intensel}' with cold. Once he built a fire, 
but was ordered to put it out and did so. How- 
ever, as soon as the officer was gone, he built 
enough to keep his feec warm. His next engagement 
was at Shiloii, and he was in Gen. Lew Wallace's 
brigade which saved Gen. Grant's army at that 
battle. After this our subject was at Bolivar and 
Matamoias,and at the latter place saw his first shell 
from the eaemy. Like many others, he dodged it, 
and afterwards found that it was a quarter of a mile 
awa}' from him. He was in the siege of Yicks- 
burg, was through it all, and assisted in breaking 
the levee to turn the water into Louisiana. He 
was at the battle of Thompson's Hill, where they 
charged the enemy just at nightfall and drove 
them out. He was under Gen. Logan at the bat- 
tle of Raymond, and afterwards at Jackson, Cham- 
pion Hills and Black River. At Vicksburg Mr. 
Brown re-enlisted as a veteran, went across the 
Mississippi, and took part in the battle at Baker's 
Creek. Returning to Vicksburg, he obtained a 
veteran furlough for thirty days and went home, 
where he spent part of the time in Stark and part 
of the time in AVilliams County. 

Returning to his command, Mr. Brown was at 
the front in Big Shanty. Soon after, he had the 
opportunity of watching a battle without being 
engaged in it, and was so situated that he could 
watch the approach of both armies. After this be 



472 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



was in many skirmishes until the ai-mj"^ reached 
Atlanta, where our subject was out as a skirmisher 
and unconsciously saved his life by stepping back 
just as a bullet passed along his vest. He was 
chased by the enemy, but managed to escape by 
hiding. He had still another narrow escape from 
injury at Atlanta, a l)all passing through one of 
his stockings. Mr. Brown was witli Gen. Sherman 
in his march to the sea, and from Savannali went 
to South Carolina, where lie was appointed to take 
charge of a forage detail, haying command of the 
same for five months, or until the close of the 
war. He had many narrow escapes but was ever 
ready for duty. After cessation of hostilities, our 
subject took part in the Grand Review at "Washing 
ton, and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky. He 
enlisted as a private, but just before reaching 
Atlanta he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. 

After ther war was over Mr. Brown returned to 
Stark County, Ohio, and soon began to prepare 
for the ministry by a course of private reading. 
On the 27th of January, 1867, he was married to 
Miss Sophia .J. Grant, a distant relative of Gen. 
U. S. Grant, her grandfather and Gen. Grant's 
father being second cousins. She was born in 
Stark County, Ohio, near Alliance, January 14, 
1845, and was a daughter of Stacy and Mary 
(Schaffer) Grant. The March following his mar- 
riage Mr. Brown entered the conference, and was 
assigned to a charge at Dempsey town, .Venango 
County, Penn., where he remained two years. 
From there he went to Oil Citj', where he remained 
one 3'ear; next at Linesville, Penn., two 3-ears, and 
then on the Stark Circuit of Stark County one 
year. After this he was at Southington, Trumbull 
County, Ohio, two years; East Libert3S Summit 
County, Ohio, three years, and while there was 
sent .as a delegate two years in succession to the 
(General Board of Missions. After leaving Liberty, 
he went on the Venango Circuit, Clarion County', 
Penn., remained there two years, and was sent as 
a delegate to the General Conference at Chicago. 

Later, Rev. Mr. Brown moved to Des Moines, 
Iowa, was pastor there for one year, and Ijroke 
down at that place with rheumatism. Thinking 
to improve his health, he went to Manley Junc- 
tion, and later his friends sent him to Hot 



Springs, Ark., where he soon got better. Return- 
ing to his charge, he soon grew worse again, and 
was obliged to return to his home in Stark County. 
He gradually improved in health and went to 
Slienango, Mercer County, Pa., where he re- 
mained two years, and from there to South Fork 
in the Alleghany Mountains, where he was almost 
entirely cured of the rheumatism. While there he 
w.as near the dam above Johnstown, and at the 
time the dam broke was standing watching it. He 
IS the author of a description of the scene, Imt 
this piece was much mutilated by' the type-setter. 
Mr. Brown's wife and daughter had just been 
in the valley to request some friends to move out, 
and had left the valley but a few minutes when 
the awful flood came down. Our subject's only 
son, Frank D. Brown, a young man of twenty, 
went to work in .lohnstown after the flood, took 
sick with typhoid fever and died there, thus sacri- 
ficing his liriglit young life for the benefit of 
others. 

Mr. Brown was at South Fork for two years 
after the Johnstown flood, and then went to 
Pittsburgh, Pa., where he was pastor of Fulton 
Street. Evangelical Church one year. He was then 
elected Presiding Elder of Pittsburgh District, 
and moved to his present home. While in Pitts- 
burgh he was appointed a delegate to the General 
Conference at Philadelphia. In 1890, he was a|i- 
pointed a member of a committee of three to go 
to Cleveland to bring suit against the publisher of 
the Evangelical Publishing House, and the first 
decision was in favor of the plaintiff. He was 
again reappointed, in 1891, as a member of a com- 
mittee on litigation by the General Conference. 
Mr. Brown has taken a prominent part in this 
litigation, and he h.as written a number ot articles 
in reference to it. He took stock and was a Direc- 
tor in the Evangelical Publishing Company of 
Harrisburg, Pa. 

Our subject's marriage was blessed by the birth 
of two children. Frank D. Brown, born at Demp- 
seytown. Pa., December 12, 1868. He was a 
good scholar, but had not finished his course at 
the time of his death, October 29, 1889. He was 
an unusually bright, intelligent boy, and was be- 
loved by all. The other child, a daughter, is 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



473 



named Iva E. She was born at Southington, 
Trumbull Country, Ohio, June 16, 1873. Our sub- 
ject's benefactor, Daniel Tonibaugli, died on the .5th 
of August, 1891, and Mr. Brown vv.as left his sole 
heir. The eldest sister of our subject, Mrs. Martha 
Ilallis, is a widow and resides in Iowa. His next 
sister, Mrs. Eliza (ireen, resides in Bradford, Ark., 
and his next youngest brother, William H., is a 
bachelor and served three years in the war. He 
is at present located at Sjjringdale, Oklahoma Ter- 
ritory. The youngest brother, Alvin, M., enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Seventh Ohio Infantry, 
and was killed in a charge at Chancellorsville. 



"ifjOSEPH BIECHELE, President and Manager 
I of the .Josepli Biechele Soap Compan\', Presi- 
j^ I dent of the Bergcr ]Manufacturing Company, 
y^f) Vice-president t)f the Central Savings Bank 
and President of the Ohio Volk Zeitung, is one of the 
prominent and influential citizens of Canton. He 
is well and favorabl}' known throughout the 
State of Ohio and adjoining States as well. He 
was born in Baden, Germany, March 1!), 1833, 
and is the youngest of four sons and two daugh- 
ters. 

The father of our subject, Leopold Biechele, 
was a soap manufacturer and carried on that busi- 
ness in Baden until his death, which resulted from 
typhoid fever in 1835. The same time several 
children of the family died. The mother, who 
bore the maiden name of Caroline Egly, contin- 
ued to reside in her native land until 1847, when, 
willi a son and two daughters, she emigrated to 
America, landing in New Orleans, whence with 
her family she started for Cincinnati, Ohio, where 
she had a sister living. The vessel ou which 
she took passage began racing with another boat, 
and near Natchez the pressure of steam was so 
great that the heads of the cylinders were blown 
off, and she and her daughter, together with 
sixty-five others, were killed in the explosion. 



The son Charles and the other sister had gone on 
deck a few minutes before the accident, and were 
saved. 

Our subject was thus left an or|)han at a very 
early age, his father dying when he was two and 
liis mother when he was but ten years old. He 
remained in his native land after his mother 
started for America, and attended school between 
the ages of six and thirteen years, acquiring a 
good knowledge of grammar, Latin and the com- 
mon branches. On leaving school, be entered the 
employ of a grain dealer, with whom he re- 
mained until eighteen years of age, when he emi- 
grated to the United States in 1851, landing in 
New York City. He came direct to Canton, and 
went to work with his brother, Charles Biechele, 
who was engaged in the manufacture of candles. 
In 1853 and 1854, he was employed in a soap fac- 
tory in Cincinnati, and paid the soap-boiler to teach 
him the process of making soap. After about 
cigiiteen months, he returned to Canton and 
formed a partnership with his brother in tiic 
manufacture of soap, which they continued for 
four years. They began operations on a small 
scale in connection with the manufacture of can- 
dles, and continued the business until 1858, when 
it was run for ten years under the firm name of 
C. Biechele & Bro. 

In 1868, our subject bought out his brother 
and carried on the work successfully under his 
own name until 1888, when the Joseph Biechele 
Soap Company was established, his son-in-law, 
E. Reinkendorf, being admitted to partnership. 
The company manufactures some twenty-eight 
different brands of soap, the Banner Soap for the 
laundry having the largest sale. They also manu- 
facture a number of choice toilet soaps, and the 
Horse Brand Coach Castile Soaps are also very 
popular. Tiie firm sells to the jobbing and retail 
trade. Both gentlemen are well-known business 
men, and the firm has the confidence and good- 
will of its many patrons. They are now estab- 
lished in a large two-story brick building, the 
machinery run by steam power and employment 
is furnished to twenty-seven men and girls. 

Mr. Biechele was married, in 1868, to Miss Abby 
Barnard, a native of Canton and a daughter of 



Hi 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



J. B. Barnard. They have one son and four 
daugliters: Bertha, Ida, Minnie, Anna and Joseph. 
In connection with his other business interests, 
Mr. Biechele is President of tlie Ohio Publishing 
Company, Vice-president of the Central .Savings 
Bank of Canton, and President of the Berger 
Manufacturing Company. He was also President 
of the Pioneer .Society for six years. President of 
the .St. Joseph's Aid Society', President of the Con- 
cordia .Society, and a member of the Board of Health 
several years. In IMarch, 1 892, he was appointed b3^ 
Gov. McKiuley one of the Trustees of the Ohio 
Asylum for the Blind in Columbus. In speaking 
of this appointment, the Evening Repository says: 
"Jlen of all political parties in Eastern Ohio, 
where Mr. Biechele is best known, will bear testi- 
mony to his eminent fitness and the good judg- 
ment that must have prompted his appointment." 
Our subject, his wife and family are members 
of St. Peter's Catholic Church. They have a 
handsome and commodious brick residence, which 
is richly and tastefully furnished and situated in 
the midst of attractive surroundings, at No. 140 
Soutli Market .Street. In politics, Mr. Biechele 
votes independent in local matters, but in State 
and National elections supports the Democratic 
party. He is a gentleman of the highest integ- 
rity and business qualifications, and by his indus- 
trious efforts, well-directed energies and the appli- 
cation of cc)rrect business princii)les has acquired 
a handsome property. 



W^M 



jp^ OLOMON KEASEY probably enjoys as ex- 
^^^ tensive an acquaintance and rejoices in the 
vLf 7 good-will of as many friends as an}' man 
in Stark County. He is numbeied among 
the old residents of Plain Township, where he at 
present makes his home, and is conducting his af- 
fairs as an agriculturist according to the best 
methods, and displaying honor in all his transac- 
tions. A native of Pennsylvania, he was born in 
Franklin County, November 19, 1818, where also 



his father, John Keasey, was born. The latter 
gentleman was of German descent and a farmer by 
occupation, owning two hundred and thirty acres 
of excellent land in his native county, which he 
farmed extensively. He was a fine representa- 
tive of the self-made man, as in early life he was 
thrown u)ion his own resources, but through in- 
domitable courage and an invincible determination 
he rose from an humble position to affluence and 
wealth. He w.as an active member of the Presby- 
terian Church, and died when at the advanced age 
of seventy years. Politically, he was reared a 
AVhig and adhered to that party during his life. 

Our subject's mother bore the maiden name of 
Barbara Hammond, and, like her husband, she too, 
was Iiorn in Franklin County, Pa. Of the nine 
children l>orn of her union with John Kease}-, the 
following eight grew to manhood and womanhood: 
John, Barbara, .Jacob, !Marv, David, Susannah, 
Jane and Solomon, of whom four are still living. 
Mrs. Keasey was a devoted member of the Presby- 
terian Church. 

Solomon Keasey of this sketch remained under 
the parental roof until reaching his twenty-fifth 
year, when, in 1843, he was married to Miss Marga- 
ret Hammond, also a native of the Keystone .Stale. 
She came with lier parents to this .State, and on re- 
turning to Penn.sylvania on a visit, there met and 
married our subject. Mr. Keasey came to this 
locality in 1847, and purchasing property in Plain 
Township, here resided for ten jears, when he dis- 
posed of his tract and purchased the farm where 
he is at present residing, and which was the farm 
of his father-in-law. He is a man of exceptional 
intelligen( e, uses his brains as well as his muscles 
in conducting his farming operations, and conse- 
quently has achieved a marked success and ranks 
among the best agriculturists in this portion of the 
county. His estate, which comprises eighty-six 
and one-half acres, is adorned with a handsome 
brick residence, which is conveniently arranged, 
neat in all its appointments and tastefully fur- 
nished. Among the numerous farm buildings is 
a large frame barn, which affords ample accommo- 
dation for the large quantity of grain wliich he 
raises and the stock which it shelters. 

Mrs. Keasey is a lady of an amiable disposition 



PURTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



475 



and has inanj' other fine traits of character which 
endear her to all who know her. She possesses an 
earnest, religious nature, and with her husband is 
a valued member of the Presbyterian Church. 
Politically, our suliject votes the Republican ticket, 
and has served frequently' in official positions, hav- 
ing been a member of the School Board for eleven 
years and Road Supervisor for thirteen years. His 
liberalitv and public spirit are shown by his warm 
sujjport of whatever will tend to increase the pros- 
perity of his township and county, or will elevate 
their social and moral status. 






I 



'^ OHN F. GROSSKLAUS. Our subject is the 
senior member of the well-known drug firm 
of Grossklaus & Ricksecker, of Navarre, 
^^ and he is a leading and influential -citizen 
in the town. He is a native of Switzerland, and 
was born January 18, 1827. He is a son of 
.lohn and Barbara Grossklaus, who, when our sub- 
ject was about six years of age, emigrated to 
America, making the change in 183.3. 

The journe}^ across the ocean was made in a 
sailing-vessel, the Grossklaus family taking pas- 
sage at Havre. After a voyage of forty-seven days' 
duration, they landed in New York City, but did 
not make a stay of any length there, coming on 
directly to this city. The family settled on a 
farm in Sugar Creek Township, being among the 
earliest settlers in that vicinity. Our subject was 
reared to manhood's estate in that locality, and 
until fifteen years of age I'cmained on the farm. 
He then entered the employ of Dr. .1. L. Leeper, 
formerly of Navarre, in the capacity of drug 
clerk. He remained with him for about three years, 
and then went into the photograph business. 

After continuing his work as a photographer 
for thirteen years, part of which time was spent 
in Navarre and part in Massillon, our subject 
launched into the drug business in ]iarlnersliip 
with Mr. Ricksecker, beginning in 1X71. They 
have since continued togethei-. and it is a somc- 
24 



what remarkable fact that the twentj'-one years of 
the firm's association have been perfectly harmo- 
nious and pleasant. 

Our subject . received his education in the dis- 
trict schools in the vicinity of his home, but has 
taken every advantage which has come in his way 
for self-development, and he is considered a very 
intelligent gentleman. For two years, he served 
as Trustee of Bethlehem Township, and has also 
been Trustee of Sugar Creek Township. He was 
Treasurer of Navarre Cor|)oration for three years. 
Our subject is a Republican in politics and, fra- 
ternally, is a Mason. 

During the war, Mr. Grossklaus was in the one 
hundred days' volunteer service. He was detailed 
to duty as Hospital Steward at the Western Bar- 
racks, at Covington, Ky. He was out some four 
mouths and received as compensation 112 per 
month. He responded to the call of Gov. Todd 
and was among the miiiutemen, or what were 
familiarly known as the "Squirrel Hunters." For 
two weeks he operated between Covington and 
Cincinnati in this capacity. He is a member of 
Miller Post, G. A. R., at Navarre, and is a mem- 
ber of the American Association for the Advance- 
ment of Science; he is also associated with the Ohio 
State Pharmacists, being one of the oldest men 
in the American Pharmaceutical Association, which 
was organized in 1852, his membership beginning 
in 1859. He claims to be the third oldest mem- 
ber in the Association. 



■iHOMAS REES MORGAN, Sk., President 
and Treasurer of the Morgan Engineering 
Company, of Alliance, is one of tlie most 
influential men of Stark C(mnty, and has been 
prominently identified with its upbuilding. He 
was born in Penydarren, Merth^^r Tj'dvil, Glamor- 
ganshire, Wales, March 31, 1834, and is the young- 
est son and only survivor in a family of six 
cliildren, whose ]>arents were Rees and Margaret 



476 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. 



(Lewis) Morgan. He was sent to school until 
eight years of age, when he worked first as a door- 
boy and afterward as a teamster for his father, a 
coal-mining contractor. His father then found 
liini so proficient and reliable that he gave him a 
trustworthy position before filled only by those of 
much more mature years. 

When ten and a half years of age, our subject 
was caught between some loaded coal cars, dragged 
under them and fearfully mangled, but by the 
tender nursing of his practical, devoted and lov- 
ing mother, he was full}' restored, having lost only 
the left leg below the knee. His father, who had 
been emplojx-d for about thirty-eight years as a 
servant of the Iron and Mining Company, was ad- 
vised to give his son a higher education, the com- 
pany offering to give him the best opportunities 
the}' could to meet his wishes. He was then sent 
to school and was a student under some of the 
best instructors and most prominent teachers of 
his native land. At a very early age, he devel- 
oped a fondness for mechanics, and before he was 
fourteen he left school to learn a trade. This was 
in opposition to the purposes of his parents and 
friends. He became a machinist, and for five years 
was in the Penydarren Iron Works, in liis native 
town. He then entered tlie Dowlais Iron Works, 
at that time the largest in the world, and during 
the several years which he spent there the Besse- 
mer process of steel-making had some of its first 
trials, Mr. Morgan preparing seme of the machin- 
ery. Subsequently, he obtained a more desirable 
position, and for five years more was a machinist 
in Wales. 

At length, imbued with a love of liberty, Mr. 
]\Iorgan bade good-bye to his friends, crossed the 
Atlantic and, with his family, landed in tiiis coun- 
try April 15, 1865. For a short time, he was em- 
ployed in the shops of the Lackawanna & Blooms- 
burgh Railroad, and then in the Cambria Iron 
Works, of Johnstown, Pa. He afterward filled 
important positions in Pittsburgh, where, in Feb- 
ruary, 1868, he embarked in the manufacture of 
steam hammers and other si)ecial lines of machin- 
ery. His business rapidly- increased and in Au- 
gust, 1871, he removed with the works to Alliance, 
Oiiio, where he has cai'ried on business on an ex- 



tensive scale continuously since. Employment 
Is furnished to about six hundred men, and these 
works are among the best in the United States. 
The}' manufacture steam hammers, power and hy- 
draulic punching and shearing machinery, and 
many kinds of cranes. From these works was 
sent a thirty-ton steam hammer, more than twice 
the size of that which had hitherto been consid- 
ered the largest in this country. They also made 
one of the largest cranes in the world, it being 
used in the United States Navy Yard in Wash- 
ington, D. C. Their goods are sold all over the 
country and, being first-class, find a ready market. 

On the 4th of July, 1856, Mr. Morgan married 
Eliz.abeth, daughter of John Nicholas, of Wales, 
and unto them were born twelve children, six yet 
living. In the shops are now eniplo3'ed John, 
who is Cliief Engineer; Thomas R., Secretary and 
General Manager; William Henry, who is Assistant 
and Chief Electrician; I^dwin and Arthur. 

Mr. Morgan is a most indefatigable worker, 
and has not only won success for himself, but is 
continually doing something to aid otliers, espec- 
ially those in his employ. Among his workmen one 
of the finest bands in Ohio has been organized. 
Mr. Morgan is strongly American in feeling, and 
does all in his power to produce the same feelings 
in his employes, who have for him the highest 
regard. He is a member of the American Insti- 
tute of Mining Engineers, the American Society of 
Mechanical Engineers, the Iron and Steel Institue 
and the Meclianical Engineers of Great Biitain. He 
has been in the front rank of all public improve- 
ments and a willing co-operator in all good works. 
He has been a member of the Council, was elected 
to the State and National Convention, is Presi- 
dent of the Board of Trade, a member of the 
Board of Trustees of Mt. Union College, Director 
of the Alliance Banking Company, and Supreme 
President of the new Order of Adelphia, with 
headquarters at Alliance. He is now nominee 
for Congress in the Eighteenth Ohio, or the JIc- 
Kinley District, which comprises the counties of 
Stark, Columbiana and Mahoning, three of the 
leading counties in the State. 

The Morgan Gymnasium, named in his honor, 
is the handsomest of the college buildings in Alii- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



477 



ance. It was erected chiefly' through the influence 
and hberality of our subject, together with Rich- 
ard Brown, of Youngstown, and Lewis Miller, of 
Akion, Ohio. The building, of pressed brick, 
two stories in heiglit, with a basement, is 50x70 
feet, built in Gothic style, and has a fine tower, 
wherein a telescope will be placed. Mr. Morgan 
is distinguished for his many excellent per^■onal 
qualities, as well as for his remarkably successful 
career. B}' perseverance, enterprise, business sa- 
gacity and moral integrity, he has become one of 
the leading men in his line of business in the 
United .States and has attained to a position of 
wealth, honor and influence. 



G. BIECMELE isone of tiie oldest busi- 
(l^yLJl ness men in Canton. He was born in the 
(i Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, Novem- 
ber 14, 1828, and is a son of Lieobold 
and Caroline (Eckley) Biechele, natives of Ger- 
many. Our subject's father died in his native 
land. His mother died in a steamboat disaster at 
Natchez, Miss., of which a full account is given in 
the sketch of Cliarles Biechele, a brother of Mr. 
A. G. Biechele, in another portion of this vol- 
ume. 

Our subject was reared in his native land and i 
there educated. The family emigrated to Amer- 
ica in 1846, our subject remaining until the fol- 
lowing 3'ear, when he nnd his brother Lieobold 
sailed for America, landing in New York in June, i 
1847. They proceeded at once to Canton, to ! 
which place their family had previously come. 
Mr. A. G. Biechele had learned the stone mason's 
trade in the Old Country, having served an ap- 
prenticesliip of three years. After coming to the 
United States, he worked for about six months at 
his trade, helping to put up the north wing of the 
present Infirmary. He then engaged in the 
blacksmith's trade, at which he worked for two 
and a half years. 

March 4. 1850, the original of tliisskclch r-laited 



out, in compan_y with twelve other young men, 
for California, by way of the Nicaragua route. 
Going to Wheeling, they proceeded thence to 
Cincinnati, where they bought provisions and 
boarded a steamboat for New Orleans. They had 
contracted for a steamer to take them to their 
journey's end, but were swindled and lost a good 
portion of their money. After remaining in New 
Orleans four weeks, they were compelled to pur- 
sue their way on a sailing-vessel. While in New 
Orleans, the cholera broke out, and as they lay at 
the quarantine station, our subject witnessed the 
terrible sight of casting overboard the bodies of 
twenty-eight cholera victims, and this inside of 
three days. It would seem as though there were 
an adverse fate preventing their journey', for on 
the sailing-vessel they encountered a terrible 
storm, and the sailors had to tie themselves to the 
masts to prevent being swept overboard. They 
were twenty -seven days in reaching San Juan, and 
thence went up the Nicaragua River in small 
boats. Crossing the lake, thej- traveled overland 
sixty miles to the Pacific Coast. 

On arriving at San Francisco, our subject was 
without a penny, but found a kind friend who 
helped him. Mr. Biechele went to mining, and 
for the first three months he averaged 137.50 per 
day. His party then tunneled a hill for ore, 
working day and night for six months. They 
struck a rich vein, but got into trouble with an 
English syndicate and were forced to give up their 
claim. During tlie three years that our subject 
passed in the gold regions, he saw man}^ hardships, 
and more than once gave up his life as lost. 

In 1853 Mr. Biechele returned to Canton, and in 
the same year engaged in the business which he 
has since so ably followed on. He is the oldest 
tinner in the town. His firm does roofing and fur- 
nace work, and are extensive dealers in stoves, 
tinware, etc. He came to Canton with hut little 
capital, but has accumulated a comfortable fortune, 
as have also his brothers. He has always paid 
strict attention to business and has never sought 
olflce. 

In 1856, the original of this sketch was married 
til Miss Mary A. Lotheramcr. They have been 
the [larcnts of foiir sons and tlu'ee daughters. 



•178 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



who are: Edward; Christina, the wife of Dr. 
Lininger; Anthoi)3', Ellen, Albert, Corinne and 
Arthur. Our subject and his wife have been iden- 
tified with the Catholic Church in this city ever 
since the first services were held in the old church 
of Canton. It was dedicated on the first Sunday 
of his arrival here from Germany. He is a mem- 
ber of St. Joseph's Society. 



*^^^i 



MWm 



1 ^ » - ^ 



/^ HARLES K. FRAZKR. Treasurer and Busi- 
[1(^1, ness Manager of the Democrat Publishing 
^^^J Company, of Canton, has the honor of be- 
ing a native of this city, where liis birth occurred 
on the 8th of September, 1858. He is a son of 
David and Ellen (O'Callaghan) Frazer, who were 
early settlers of this place. The father was a shoe- 
maker by trade, and both parents are now deceased- 
Our subject was reared and educated in his na- 
tive city and after attending the common schools 
entered Avery's Academy and completed his edu- 
cation in the Canton High School. At the age of 
fourteen j-ears, he entered the Democrat office as 
•'devil" and later learned the printing business. He 
afterward again entered school, and when his 
school life was over became a reporter for the Re- 
pository and subsequently became City Editor of 
the same, continuing to serve as such for six years. 
On tho expiration of that period, he entered the 
employ of A. McGregor & Co., job printers, and 
after six months became Treasurer and Business 
Manager of the News-Democi-al, which was incor- 
porated in 1890, \vith a cash capital of $50,000. 
The officers are Isaac R. Sherwood, President and 
Managing Editor; Anthony Howell, Vice-presi- 
dent, and Charles R. Frazer, Treasuier and Busi- 
ness Manager. The company prints both a daily 
and weekly paper. The former is a four-page 
journal, 26x40 inches, and the size of the eight- 
page weekl}- is 35x48 inches. It is a bright and 
newsy sheet, of neat appearance and well edited. 
It is published in the interests of the community 
and tlie Democratic party, and has a large circula- 



tion in Canton and the surrounding country. In 
1891, the company erected a four-story brick 
building, the whole being occupied by their busi- 
ness. The office is one of the best-equipped in 
their line in Eastern Ohio, and in it are em|iloye(l 
from fifteen to twenty men. They also have 
twenty regular carriers, and thirty newsboj'S sell 
the papers on the street. 

In 1884, Mr. Frazer was married to Miss JMinnie, 
daughter of Allen Eberly, Esq., and unto them 
have been born four children, as follows: Ellen E., 
Ruth M., Celia M. and Charles R., Jr. 

Mr. F^razer has been a member of the City Coun- 
cil for two years and during the last year has 
served as President of that body. He was also 
Secretary of the Board of Trade for two years. 
For the past five years, he served as Vice-president 
of the United States Humane Association and since 
1883 has been Secretary and Supei-intendenl of 
the Canton Humane Societ}'. His labors are per- 
formed gratuitously, from a love of the cause. In 
politics, he is a stalwart Democrat and takes an ac- 
tive part in the interest and success of his party. 
In 1887, he made the race for Ma3'0r, but was de- 
feated by John F. Blake. Over two thousand 
votes were polled at the primaries and he lost the 
nomination b3' only fifty-one. Mr. Frazer is a 
well-informed man. He is a genial and affable 
gentleman, very popular and hiscircle of acquaint- 
ances in the community is large. 



.^pLBURTIS O. SLENTZ, President of the 
1@/lJI| Canton Stove Company, and an enterpris- 
ing business man of Canton, is a native of 
the Buckeye State. He was born on the 
18tli of May, 1845, in Columbiana County. His 
fatiier, James Slentz, was a native of Peuns^ivaiiia, 
and engaged in the manufacture of wagons and 
grain cradles. He took an active part in local poli- 
tics, served twentj^-three years as Justice of the 
Peace in New Franklin, Stark County, and was a 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



479 



prominent citizen of that community, whither he 
harl removed when our subject was nine years of 
nge. He died in 1886, in his sixty-fifth year. His fa- 
ther, .Jacob Slentz, was one of tlie early settlers of 
Ohio and was of German lineage. The mother of 
our subject bore the name of Elizabeth Snyder. 
She is a daughter of Jacob Snyder, and was born 
in Salem, Ohio. She yet survives her husband 
and makes her home in New Franklin. 

Our subject is the second in a family of four 
sons and three daughters, all of whom arc 3et 
living. The first eight years of his life were spent 
in his native countj' and he then accompanied his 
parents to New Franklin, where he was reared to 
manhood, acquiring liis education in the common 
schools. At the age of sixteen years, he began to 
learn the carpenter's and joiner's trade and when 
twenty years of age enlisted in his country's ser- 
vice, becoming a member of Company A, One Hun- 
dred and Nineteenth Ohio Infantry. His regi- 
ment was sent to Harper's Ferr\% W. Va., from 
wjiich place the troops marched on to Richmond. 
The surrender of Gen. Lee soon afterward occurred, 
i)ut his company was retained on guard dutj' un- 
til September, 1865, when he was honorably dis- 
charged. 

Returning to New Franklin, Mr. Slcutz there 
engaged in carpentering until 1867, when he came 
to Canton and followed his trade for a year. He 
was then employed in the wood department of C. 
Aultman ifc Company's Works for eighteen months, 
after which he became connected with the Peerless 
Reaper Works, serving in the wood-work and pat- 
tern-making department for five years. On the 
expiration of that time, he was made Foreman in 
the wood department, sul)sequently became Assist- 
ant Superintendent in the same sho]is, and during 
the four last years of hisconn-ection with the Peer- 
less Reaper Works was Superintendent. 

On Christmas Day of 1869, Mr. Slentz married 
Miss Lorena Shoof, wlio was born and reared in 
Canton and is a daughter of Andrew Shoof. They 
have two cliildren: Warren E.,who is book-keeper 
for the Canton Stove Company, and Annetta M., 
at schooL They reside at No. 16 E.ast Tenth 
Street, where they have a good iiome. Our sub- 
ject is a member of tlie Democratic party and has 



served as a member of the City Coiincil for two 
terms. He was also a member of the Board of 
Education for two terms and is now a member of 
the Board of Health and of the Board of Equaliza- 
tion. In his social relations, he is a Mason, hold- 
ing membership with the Blue Lodge, Council and 
Chapter of Canton. In February, 1890, in connec- 
tion with others, Mr. Slentz organized the Canton 
Stove Company, of which he was made President 
and Superintendent. 



\\ OSIAH CORRELL. Many pleasant homes 
are seen throughout the extent of Stark 
^,^1 , County, some of which are of more than 
^^^ ordinary beauty, either in architectural de- 
signs or surroundings. Among those in Plain 
Township which are commodious and convenient 
is that of Josiah Correll, whose substantial resi- 
dence is set in the midst of a neatly trimmed lawn, 
which makes of it one of the most beautiful places 
in the county. It is furnished in accordance with 
the taste of tlie occupants, and displays the pres- 
ence of refined womanhood in its arrangement. 

A native of this township, our subject was born 
on section 15, the date thereof being November 19, 
1836. His father, John Correll, was born in 
Adams County, Pa., in 1788, and was of German 
descent, the first representatives having come to 
tliis country from Alsace, and settled in Pennsyl- 
vania. The father of our subject came with his 
family of ten children to tliis count}- in 1824, tiie 
trip, which was made overland, consuming two 
weeks. Here he purchased one hundred and sixty 
acres of land on the southwest quarter of section 
34, on which the only improvements were a log 
cabin and barn. He was a hard worker, and ere 
long had placed the entire amount under good 
tillage, and his well-directed efforts resulted in 
supplying his family with a comfortable home and 
man}' enjoyments. He was a member of the Chris- 
tian Church, and aided in the organization of tlie 
church in Canton, and toward the erection of the 



480 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



building gave material support. His death oc- 
curred at the age of seventy-one j^ears, three 
months and ten days. He was a Democrat in poli- 
tics until the apjjearance of the Republican party, 
when he joined its ranks. 

The mother of our subject, prior to her marriage, 
was Mrs. Elizabeth Lind, and was born in Adams 
County, Pa., in 1794. She became the mother of 
twelve children, namely: Jacob N., Samuel, John, 
Catherine, Fannie, Maria, Ann Eliza, Sarah J., 
Nancy, Jeremiah, Margaret and Josiah. Five of 
the family are now deceased. The wife and 
mother, who survived her husband a number of 
years, departed this life in March, 1875, when 
eightj^-one jears of age. She, too, was a member 
of the Christian Church. 

The original of this sketch received a limited 
education, owing to the comparative!}' rude sur- 
roundings of his boj-hood. The early public schools 
of Ohio having on their curriculnra onl}- the com- 
mon branches, he was well grounded in these, and 
being imbued with native intelligence and a desire 
tor information, he has by reading, observation 
and experience become well informed. The natural 
bent of his mind and early training combined to 
lead him to farming as his life work, and after his 
marriage, March 20, 1862, he took charge of the 
home place for one j'ear, and then, removing to 
this township, purchased fift^' acres of land, and 
there resided until 186G, when he traded for the 
tract which he now occupies. The estate comprises 
ninet3--two and one-half acres of land, the greater 
portion of which is placed under excellent cultiva- 
tion, and which gives indication that the owner is 
determined to make his home pleasant as well as 
remunerative. His intelligence, enterprising na- 
ture and honorable dealing have given him an ex- 
cellent standing in both business and social circles, 
and caused him to be classed among the represen- 
tative agriculturists of the county. 

The maiden name of our subject's wife was Marj- 
E. Mcntzer, and she was born in this township, 
March 9, 1838. She is the daughter of David and 
Christcna (Hull) Mentzer. To Mr. and Mrs. Cor- 
rell have been granted a family of five children, 
namely: Charles G., who is married and makes his 
home on a farm in this township; Edwin S., Ada 



M., Nettie J. and Lillie L., at home. Besides rais- 
ing the cereals which are best adapted to the soil 
of his estate, our subject buys horses every fall, 
which he feeds during the winter, and then sells at 
a handsome profit in the spring. In 1891, he 
shipped a carload to Boston, wheie they were sold. 
He has stock in the new Imperial Brick Company, 
and judging from the sui)erior article which they 
manufacture it is destined to take a high place 
among the industries in this section. 

Mr. and Airs. Correll are members of the Chris- 
tian Church in Canton, and it is their constant en- 
deavor to order their lives aright, and to train 
their children in the way they should go. In poli- 
tics, our subject votes with the Republican party. 
He has been veiy successful in life, and owns resi- 
dence property on Logan, Aultman and South 
Cleveland Avenues in Cai.ton. His fellow-citizens 
hold him in great respect, and upon their solicita- 
tion he has held the office of Road Supervisin- for 
six years, being now the incumltent of that posi- 
tion, and during that time has done much to add 
to the comfort of the traveling public by the good 
improvements which he has projected and carried 
to completion. 



I>^^<l 



lEUBEN ROITSH. Many of the old citizens 
and pioneers of Stark County will recog- 
L\ \V uize the name quoted above as that of a 
ij^former citizen of high standing, a loyal 
patriot and a good man, now gone to his long 
home. Mr. Roush left an example of the highest 
and most pronounced purity of character as a 
common legacj', not only to his children, but to 
the present generation. 

Reuben Roush was a native of Pennsylvania, 
and was born November 2, 1817. He was a son of 
Frederick and Annie M. Roush, both of whom 
were natives of the Quaker State, but of German 
ancestiy. When a boj', our subject emigrated 
with his parents to Stark County and settled in 
Perry Township. They were counted among the 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



481 



earliest pioneers, experiencing all the vicissitudes 
and trials in the various phases of the develop- 
ment of the country. Both parents died here. 
Reuben did his full share in reclaiming the whole 
farm from its original wilderness, and was inter- 
ested in all public enteriH'ises. His educational 
advantages were small, but what he lacked in book 
lore he made up in grit and "gumption." 

For twenty years Mr. Roiish ran a sawmill at 
Richville, carrying on in connection with this in- 
terest quite an extensive farming business, his 
tract of land being about two miles south of Rich- 
ville. This he developed from virgin woodland. 
He might be considered a typical Ohio pioneer, 
having all their push and energy, balanced by in- 
telligence and discretion. December 25, 1840, he 
was married to Miss Lydia Jacoby, a native of this 
locality and born .Tune 21, 1821. She is a 
daughter of David and Mary Jacoby, both of 
whom were natives of Penns^dvania and pioneers 
in Perry Township. The young married couple 
settled in a log cabin in the midst of thick woods, on 
the farm where she now resides. She was a model 
pioneer's wife and made the best of existing cir- 
cumstances, calling upon her ingenuity to supple- 
ment the scanty conveniences of that earlj' day. 

Mr. and Mrs. Roush had a large family of chil- 
dren, of whom the following survive: Mary M., 
now Mrs. John Hartzell; John A., who married 
Eliza Foltz; Catherine L., now Mrs. Newton 
Koontz; Francis M., who married Clara B. Win- 
gard; Ann M., the wife of George Rutter; Ida M., 
wife of William Rutter; Calvin R., who married 
Catherine Nay; Laura M., who is the wife of 
William Miller; Lincoln A., who married Ora 
Smith; and Minnie E., the wife of Edward Jacoby. 

Mr. Roush had served as Trustee of Perry Town- 
ship, and was a leading and influential citizen. In 
politics, he was a Republican, and in hischureli re- 
lations, he was a Methodist. In the city of Mas- 
sillon, he was well and favorablj' known as a busi- 
ness man, one whose word could always be im- 
plicitly relied upon. In domestic life, he was a 
model of tenderness, forethought and forbearance. 
As a friend and neighbor, his good qualities were 
man\', and in his death I'erry Township lost one 
of her most estimable citizens. His widow still re- 



sides on the home farm, which comprises one hun- 
dred and twenty acres of good and arable land. 
She has at command a fund of anecdotes and in- 
cidents of pioneer days that would bo valuable to 
the historical societies of the State. 



J. KELLER was born in Lawrence Town- 
)"; ship, one mile north of Massillon, Septem- 
ber 23, 1861. He is a son of Rheinhart 
and Mary (Oster) Keller, both of Germany. He 
was a miner in his native land, and on coming to 
the United States became Superintendent of the 
Warwick & Keller Coal Mine, in which, as the firm 
name will indicate, he is largely interested. Our 
subject was one of nine children, of whom eight 
are now living. He is the third eldest. As a lad, 
he attended St. Mary's Parochial School, and com- 
pleted the course at the age of thirteen years. 

Mr. Keller began work at the coal mines as a 
driver, but soon went into the office as shipping 
clerk, working for the Rhodes Coal Company, of 
Cleveland. He was with them for five years and 
th<'n came to Massillon, and in September of 1881 
started in the grocery business with a partner, 
under the firm name of Sonnhalter & Keller. Thej' 
continued in this business at No. 2 East Main 
Street until September 1, 1889, when the orig- 
inal of this sketch sold out and launched into the 
coal and oil business, and in 1891 accepted the 
agency for the Wells-Fargo Express Company. 
He now carries on a large retail coal business, and 
deals besides in all kinds of powder, including 
dynamite. He has, moreover, lubricating oil. He 
sold these interests in 1891 to Mr. C. L. Halter, 
and since that time has been employed with his 
father in the mines as Superintendent in Upper 
Pigeon Run. 

Mr. Keller was married in Summit County, 
October 30, 1884, to Miss Mary C. Wiiitman, a 
daughter of Peter Whitman, a prominent farmer 
in that locality. They have a pleasant home lo- 
cated at No. 107 Prospect Street. Here their four 



482 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



children create brightness in the home life. They 
are named Effa, William, Rheinhart and Viola, 
respectively. 

From 1884 to 1886, our subject was Collector of 
Tolls of the Ohio Caual at the port of Mabsillon. 
He is a member of the Board of Trade here, and 
stands high among the business men. He and his 
family are members of St. Mary's Catholic Church. 
He is a Democrat in politics, and has been a dele- 
gate to county conventions. 



|OBERT A. BIECHELE, M. D., one of the 
foremost pli3-sicians of the county, was 
born in the city of Canton, Ohio, on the 
3d of January, 1865, and was one of seven 
children born to Charles and Mary (Bernard) 
Biechele, the father a native of Baden, (Jermany, 
and the mother of Belgium, the latter having been 
brought to America when an infant. The father 
was but twenty-one years of age when he decided 
to trj' his fortune in the "land of the free," and as 
the natural advantages of this country offered him 
ever}- inducement, he landed on this side of the 
Atlantic Ocean. Here he met and married Miss 
Bernard. Being naturally ambitious and enter- 
prising, it was not long before he was settled in 
business, and classed among the esteemed and in- 
fluential citizens. 

Mr. Biechele was a manufacturer of soap for 
many years in Canton, and established tlie soap 
business now owned and operated by Joseph 
Biechele. At the present time, Mr. Biechele is en- 
gaged in the wholesale grocery business on North 
Street, and is one of the most prominent and 
prosperous business men of the citj-. All his suc- 
cess has been achieved through his great industry, 
perseverance, and excellent business acumen. 

Dr. Robert A. Biechele, the youngest of three 
brothers, received his early scholastic advantages 
in the schools of Canton, but supplemented this 
by attending a private school in Cleveland, Ohio, 



where he was thoroughly drilled in all the 
branches. Subsequently, he began the studj' of med- 
icine in the office of Dr. Portman, of Canton, and 
then took his lectures in the Western Reserve Med- 
ical College at Cleveland, being graduated in 1887. 
After leaving this well-known institution of learn- 
ing, he spent three j'ears in the Lakeside Cleve- 
land City Hospital in the capacity of physician 
and surgeon. Later, he began practicing in Can- 
ton, and although he is one of the j'oungest phy- 
sicians of tlie county, he has already established 
quite a reputation as a thorough student of medi- 
cine, and a very successful practitioner. 

He is a member of the Stark County Academy 
of Medicine, and for one year held the position of 
Secre ary of the same. He served two j-ears as 
City Physician of Canton, and is now President of 
the Acme Steel and Iron Roofing Compan}- of 
Canton. He is one of the Directors of the Can- 
ton Grocer}' Company, also one of the visiting 
surgeons of the Aultnian Hospital, and Treasurer 
of its hospital staff. He is wide-nwake and pro- 
gressive, and is bound to make a success of life. 
His otticp is at No. 48 East Tuscarawas Street. 

The Doctor was married September 1, 1892, at 
the residence of the bride's parent*, in Woosler, 
Ohio, to Miss Anna May, daughter of Philip L. 
and Emma (Nachtrieb) Horn, the former a jtromi- 
iient baker of that |)lacc. 



e^+^i 



St MARSHALL CAMPBELL is the efficient 
I Secretary and Treasurer of the Campbell 
1 Lumber Company, which house was estab- 
*J^^' lislied in 1872, and sustains a prominent 
position among the most important lumber manu- 
factories in the State. Mr. Campbell was born in 
Canton, February 5, 1848, to James and Susan 
(Eck) Campbell, the former of whom was born at 
Atwater, Portage County, Ohio, March 11,1818, 
and the latter in Pennsylvania in 1824, a daugh- 
ter of Peter Eck. The Campbells are descended 
from the celebrated Scotch clan of that name. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



483 



J. Marshall Campbell passed his youth in Madi- 
son, Wis., and until he was fifteen years of age 
he was an attendant of the city schools, where 
he .leqiiired a practical education. When in his 
sixteenth .year, the clash of arms caused him to 
throw down his books and join the Fortieth 
Wisconsin Infantry, after which he was assigned 
to the Army of the Tennessee, l)eing stationed 
at Memphis, where he did garrison dutj'. He 
was mustered out of the service in September, 
1864, and, after returning to Madison, acted in the 
capacity of hotel clerk for five years. In 1871, he 
returned to the city of his birth, and the follow- 
ing year became connected witli the firm of Camp- 
bell, Smith tt Co., dealers and manufacturers of 
sash, doors and blinds, etc. This firm also owned 
a i)laning-mill, which they successfully operated 
for several years, and their operations were 
characterized by fairness, liberality, and enter- 
prise. At the end of a few years, the firm name 
was changed to Campbell it Sons, and in addition 
to dealing extensively in lumber, they manufac- 
ture all kinds of building materials, and the first- 
class quality of the work turned out has secured 
for them a reputation and a trade which extend 
over a large extent of territory. Mr. Campbell 
has a thorough and practical knowledge of every 
detail of the business, and his wide acquaintance 
with the trade gives him every facility for the 
prosecution of the business. The yards are lo- 
cated on Seventh and Eighth Streets, near the 
Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago Railroad tracks, 
thus affording the best of shipping facilities. 

The celebration of Mr. Campbell's marriage took 
place in 1873, Miss Fannie Bement, of Beloit, Wis., 
a native of the State of New York, becoming his 
wife. She is a daughter of E. G. Bement, and when 
a young girl removed with her parents to Wiscon- 
sin. She has borne her husband three children: 
Robert B., Lulu H., and ISI.irie. Mv. Campbell has 
become a prominent resident of the county, for 
his prominent characteristics are an acute sense of 
honor, and unquestioned integrit}', and his busi- 
ness qualifications are best attested by the success 
which has attended his efforts. He is a member of 
the City Council, representing the Seventh Ward, 
and is Vice-president of the Board of Trade. A 



Republican in politics, he has brought his sound 
judgment, progressive ideas, energy and force of 
character to bear in the interests of that party, and 
is considered one of its leaders. He and his worthy 
wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and 
move in the highest social circles of Canton. Their 
residence is at No. 170 West Tuscarawas Street, and 
the hospitality- displayed there is enjoyed by the 
many who enter its portals. 



OBERT MITCHINSON REAY, Superin- 
tendent of the Massillon Bridge Company, 
has been with his company longer than any 
fc|) man in their emplo}', since 1869, and is a 
skilled mechanic and a very successful superin- 
tendent. He is a man of good judgment and is 
thoroughly posted on all subjects of importance. 
He was born at Gateshead, Durham County-, Eng- 
land, on the 5tli of February, 1846. His father, 
Richard Reay, was born at Walls End, Northum- 
berland County, England, in 1802, and was of 
Scotch descent. The grandfather, Richard Rea.y, 
Sr., who was also born there, was engaged in the 
coal mines, and his death occurred when ninety- 
four years of age. The father was also a coal miner 
in his youth, but later in life became a school teacher 
and followed that profession for eight years, meet- 
ing with unusual success as an educator. Later 
he became Superintendent of the coal mines near 
Gateshead, and filled that position for thirty years. 
After that he removed to the city of Durham, and 
there passed the remainder of his days, his death 
occurring in 1874, when seventy-two years of age. 
He was a consistent and faithful member of the 
Church of England. He man led Miss Eleanor Mit- 
chinson, a native of Durham, England, and the 
daughter of Robert Mitchinson , also of that country, 
and a miner by occupation. She died in 1850. To 
this marriage were born six children, five of whom 
grew to mature years and three are now living, 
but only one in America. 

The original of this notice, the youngest of the 



484 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



above-mentioned family, received his scholastic 
training in the common schools, and when not 
quite twelve years of age began learning the me- 
chanic's trade, which he followed until sixteen 
years of age. He was then apprenticed as a black- 
smith at the mines for five years, or until twenty- 
one, wlieu he became a practical mechanic. He re- 
mained one j'car longer at the mines, and was then 
employed in the railroad shops as blacksmith, in 
which capacity he continued for about six months, 
or until the road was completed. Thinking to bet- 
ter his condition in everj- way, he crossed the ocean 
to America, leaving Liverpool, England, on the 
steamer "Old Virginia," and reaching New York 
City seventeen days later. A stranger in a strange 
land, he was not at a loss to know what to do, how- 
ever, for he made his way immediately to Massillon, 
Ohio, and was there emplo3ed first as blacksmith 
in a stone quarry by John Vogt. He remained 
there for some time, or until he lost one of his 
toes by having a stone fall on it, after which he 
was obliged to be idle for some time. In the fall 
of 1869, he came to the Bridge Works of Massillon, 
and has remained with this company ever since. He 
ran a forge for about Ave years, and then became 
Superintendent of the works. This was about 1874, 
and he has filled that position very acceptably ever 
since. The works cover about four and a half acres, 
and are operated by a fifty horse power boiler. One 
hundred and fifty men are employed, and the 
business is conducted on a very extensive scale. 
They manufacture railroad and highway bridges, 
and have over five hundred contracts a year, their 
work extending all over the United States. 

Mr. Reay is Superintendent of the works in 
Massillon, and is the owner of some real estate in 
this city, including a residence on AVashington 
Avenue. In 1885, he returned to the land of his 
birth and remained there three months. He was 
married in his native country in 1867 to Miss 
Mary A. Reed, a native of England and the daugh- 
ter of John Reed, who was a farmer of Northum- 
berland County. Eleven children were born 
of the marriage, seven of whom reached mature 
years, but only five are now living. One daughter, 
Eleanor, died in 1890, when about twent^'-two 
years of age; Mary, who was a graduate of the 



High School of Massillon in 1890, died in 1891, 
when twenty years of age; Jane, Edith, Catherine, 
Robert, and Lillian are at home. From 1884 to 
1886, Mr. Reay was a member of the City Council. 
Socially, he is a charter member of the Knights of 
Pythias; is a member of Clinton Lodge, F. cfe A. M.; 
is identified with the Sons of St. George, and was 
President of the Grand Lodge of the Sons of St. 
George, being Trustee of that organization. In 
politics, he is a Republican, and has been a delegate 
to a number of county conventions. Mrs. Rea.y is 
a member of the Episcopal Church, to which the 
children also belong, but Mr. Reay's sympathies 
are with the Methodist E^piscopal Church. 



AVID H. BAUGHMAN. No resident of 
Tuscarawas Township is better known 
than the gentleman above named, who is 
one of those to whom its present develop- 
ment is due. He came hither with his parents in 
1834, when a lad of seven years, and at a time 
when the county was but sparsely settled and the 
work of improvement in some of the townships 
had scarcely begun. When old enough to be of 
assistance to his father, he aided in clearing a 
farm and has borne as important a part in pioneer 
work as any man in his part of the county. Ever 
hard-working and industrious, and endowed with 
a spirit that looked forward hopefully to better 
times and spared no effort to improve the sur- 
roundings, he was rewarded by being able to se- 
cure a tract of land, and in due progress of time 
saw it placed under good cultivation. 

Mr. Baughman is a native of Pennsylvania, 
born in Cumberland County, February 17, 1827, 
to John and Margaret (rmbenhower) Baughman, 
who were natives of Virginia and of Germnn de- 
scent. As before stated, the father of our subject 
took up his abode in this county, with his family, 
in 1834, settling on the unimproved farm in Tus- 
carawas Township which is in the possession of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



485 



our subject. There he continued to reside until 
his decease, which occurred August 28. 1849. Of 
his large faiiiil.y of childreu, the following five 
survive: Ellen, Margaret, Sarah, Samuel and David. 

He of whom we write grew to maturit3' in his 
adopted county, receiving but limited educational 
advantages; but making good use of the opportu- 
nities afforded him, he endeavored to keep posted 
regarding the progress of the world. He assisted 
in clearing one hundred and twelve acres of land 
from the woods, and on turning the first furrow, 
like others under similar circumstances, found the 
work of development bj- no means easy. He now 
has a well-improved farm, supplied with all neces- 
sary buildings and brought to such a state of pro- 
ductiveness as to afford a very satisfactory in- 
come. 

The estimable lady who was the faithful com- 
panion and efficient counselor of our subject for 
man3' years, bore the maiden name of Elizabeth 
Bretz, and was the daughter of .John and Mary 
Bretz. Bj' her union with Mr. Baughman were 
born twelve children, three of whom are deceased. 
Those living are Marj', Sarah, Julia, Benjamin, 
Elizabeth, David, Ada, Nettie and William. The 
wife and mother departed this life May 9, 1891, 
leaving behind man^- relatives and friends who 
mourn her loss. She was a most estimable lady 
and a consistent member of the Reformed Church. 

Mr. Baughman has not been without his share in 
the management of local affairs and in the work 
necessary to elevate society and improve the con- 
dition of the citizens. It being well known that 
he is interested in educational matters, he was 
elected to the position of School Director, which 
he filled most efficiently. In politics, he is a true- 
blue Republican, and socially, is identified with 
Perry Grange at Massillon. 

The two hundred acres of land of which our 
subject is the owner compare favorably in every 
particular with those in the neighborhood. AVhen 
establishing a home of his own, Mr. Baughman 
was in debt to the amount of 13,000, and his fine 
farm is a standing monument to his industry and 
good management. In carrying on his operations, 
he has been tlirift}-, prudent and wisely economi- 
cal, aud has displa3'ed sagacity and due discrimi- 



nation in all things. He is well known for his strict 
honesty in business affairs, and no one is more 
trusted in moneyed matters than he. 



ENRY DPX'KERD is a representative farmer 
and stockman of Stark County and stands 
among the foremost men of his calling in 
•)) Canton Township, where he is successfully 
managing his extensive agricultural interests. He 
comes of a family well known in this section, which 
is notably connected with its early history, and 
all the members of which lived to attain advanced 
years. He of whom we write was born on the 
southwest quarter of section 28, Canton Township, 
October 11, 1839, and is a son of Benjamin Deck- 
erd, who was born in Berks County, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 26, 1794. 

The paternal grandfather of our subject was 
born in Germany and emigrated to America in 
company with his father, who was a minister in 
the German Reformed Church and who did much 
to promote the interests of that denomination in 
Pennsylvania, where they settled. In connection 
with his ministerial duties, he owned and operated 
a farm in Berks County, where he died at an ad- 
vanced age. 

Benjamin Deckerd chose for his wife Miss 
Rachael Swineheart, who was born August 1, 1797, 
also in Berks County, their marriage being solem- 
nized August 12, 1817. Tlie3' made their home on 
the farm in their native county until the spring 
of 1828, when they removed over the mountains 
by means of wagons and teams to this county, 
where the father purchased land on section 28, 
Canton Township. The tract was heavily tim- 
bered and not having provided a means of shelter 
for his family he left them at the home of his 
brother Daniel, who had preceded them to this 
section, and, clearing a spot of ground, erected a 
log cabin of the pioneer type. He was a man of 
large build and remarkable constitution. Being a 
man of industrious habits, he immediately set to 



486 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



work to clear bis purchase and ere long had the sat- 
isfaction of seeing the once barren tract trans- 
formed into a fertile and productive farm. In 
addition to his farm work, he made a speci- 
alty' of riving oak shingles, with which articles 
he supplied the settlers for many miles around. 
To himself and wife was born a famil}' of ten chil- 
dren, all of whom are now living, the eldest 
being seventj'-four 3-ears of age and the youngest 
fifty-three years old. Catherine, Mrs. Washington 
Myers, makes her home in Canton ; Jacob resides 
in Iowa; Rachel, who married Samuel Krieg, is 
living in Wabash County, Ind.; Sarah, Mrs. Stults, 
makes her home in Huntington County, that State; 
John, in Whitney Count3-, Ind.; David resides in 
Osnaburg Township, this countj-; Elizabeth, Mrs. 
Kroft, makes her home in this township; Mar}-, 
Mrs. Xeidig, also resides in Osnaburg Township; 
Christina, Mrs. Ilershey, is living in this township, 
and Henry, our subject. The mother of these 
children died April 12, 1877, aged eighty years, 
eight months and eleven days. The father, who 
survived her many years, departed this life Jan- 
uary 31, 1888, aged ninety-three years, eleven 
months and twenty-five days, tiius lacking onh' 
six days of being ninety-four years old. There 
remained to mourn his loss ten diildren, sixty-two 
grandchildren and sixty-five great-grandchildren. 
He was a member of tiie (German Reformed Church, 
while his good wife was an adherent of the 
Lutheran faith. 

Henry Deckerd, of this sketch, was reared on the 
old home place and attended his first school in 
the primitive log cabin chinked with mud and 
sticks and provided with slab benches for seats. 
When reaching liis majorit}', he began in life for 
himself, and making a visit to his sister, Mrs. 
Sarah Stults, in Huntington County, Ind., taught 
a term of school during the winter of 1860-61. 
Returning home at the end of that time, he worked 
on his father's farm by the month for one year, 
and December 22, 1862, was married to Miss Re- 
becca Cook, who was born in Pike Township, this 
county. Tlieir union was blessed by the birth of j 
eight children, of whom the following seven are 
living: William, Lewis II., Charles E., Benjamin 
C, Ira E., Harvey C, and Mary E. Tlie mother 



died June 30, 1888, and the lady whom Mr. Deck- 
erd chose for Iiis second wife, December 13 of that 
j'ear, was Miss Mar}' Judd, of Osnaburg Township. 

Tiie farm of our sul)ject comprises one hundred 
and twenty-five acres, which bear all the substantial 
improvements and upon which he has erected two 
sets of buildings. He is engaged in mixed farm- 
ing and each year feeds and ships large numbers 
of cattle. His barn, which is one of the best in 
the township, was erected in 187.5, and the h.and- 
some frame residence which adorns the place was 
built in 1881. In 1888, Mr. Deckerd caused to be 
erected on another part of the farm a large barn, 
which he uses to good purpose. 

Mr. and Mrs. Deckerd are members of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church at Osnaburg. Formerly a 
Democrat in politics he now votes with the People's 
Part}- and is identified with an}' scheme that will 
in any way forward the interests of his communit}'. 
He has been ver_v successful in all his undertakings, 
w^hich lie attributes to his close attention to busi- 
ness and good management. He is a typical self- 
made man, as what he is he owes to his own exer- 
tions and the assistance and counsel given him by 
his good wife. 



*^^! 



"jT^ RHODES is a prominent farmer, located 
I ]]] on section 1, Lawrence Township, and an 
(^JJ;!^ early settler in this locality. He was 
born on the farm where he now resides, 
January 14, 1820. Mr. Rhodes is a son of 
George and Margaret ( Smith ) Rhodes, both 
natives of Pennsylvania. The parents lived in 
Pennsylvania until 1808, when they came to Stark 
County and located in Canton, whicii at that 
time comprised onl}' three buildings. 

After living in Canton for two years, the 
Rhodes family came to Lawrence Townsliip and 
took up the section of land as above named. 
There thej- built a log cabin, wliich the family 
entered before it i)ad either floor or chimney. 
George Rhodes bent ever}' energy toward devel- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



487 



oping his farm, and at the end of a long and use- 
ful life the result of his labor was seen in the 
changed aspect of the land. Grandfather Rhodes, 
whose given name was Frederick, was a native of 
Germany, and came to the United States when a 
young man. lie settled in Pennsylvania, but 
spent his last years in Stark County, Ohio. Our 
subject's mother lived to be eighty-nine years 
old. 

D. Rhodes was one of a family of seven chil- 
dren, which comprised four daughters and three 
sons. All grew to maniiood and womanhood, and 
became the heads of families. Our subject is the 
sixth child and second son. His first recollection 
of scliool days is of the primitive log house, with 
the most meagre accommodations, and a system 
in which the birch rod plajed an important part. 
The youth remained with his parents until twent3'- 
one years of age, when he determined to see what 
fortune held in store for him. He learned the 
carpenter's trade and purchased a threshing-ma- 
chine, carrying on the two occupations in eon- 
junction for twelve years. 

When, in 1849, the gold excitement penetrated 
all parts of this country, our subject started across 
the plains with a prairie schooner via Salt Lake 
City. His company proceeded at once to Califor- 
nia, and after witnessing the novel state of societj' 
in Sacramento, Mr. Rhodes proceeded North to 
the rough-and-ready mines at Nev.ida City. He 
spent some two years there in mining, and then 
returned to Ohio via New York City. Satis- 
fied with his experience of outside life, he settled 
down to farming. 

Mr. Rhodes was married in 1850 to ^Margaret 
Machaner, who w.as born in Iniontown. The 
young people located one mile south of Canal 
Fulton, where our subject was engaged in the 
gristmill business for a year. He then went into 
the hotel business at Canal Fulton, the hostelry 
of which he was projjrietor being known as the 
American House. After spending two years there, 
he sold out and bought the old homestead where 
lie now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes have been 
the parents of thirteen children. The living are 
named as follows: Emma, Lavina, IJellc, Alta, 
Clara, Charles and Grace. Our subject owns one 



hundred and ten acres of the finest land in the 
township. There is not a foot of waste ground 
on the farm. He pays much attention to stock- 
raising and has been very successful. In politics, 
Mr. Riiodes is a Democrat. Hs has held various 
local offices in the township. He, with the other 
members of his family, belongs to the Christian 
Church, in which he is a Deacon. 



^^EORGE L. RUSSELL. The public spirit of 
ill ^f/ ^'^^ Russell famil3' is proverbial. As suc- 
^^^1 eessful business men and influential resi- 
dents of Massillon, they are buildino- for them- 
selves monuments which will outlast shafts of 
granite or statues in bronze, and are carving their 
names on the records of the city in a more en- 
during manner than those written on brass or 
stone. The subject of this sketch is in every way 
worthy of the name he bears, and is not only sus- 
taining the reputation of the family, but adding 
new lustre to it. 

The citizens of Massillon esteem Mr. Russell as 
one of their most influential and energetic resi- 
dents. He has been active on the City Council 
and was prominent in securing the present park, 
one of the ornaments of the city. In other waj'S 
his enterprise has been displayed and he has doubt- 
less contributed as effectively and continuously to 
the material welfare of the pl.ace as any other resi- 
dent thereof. A member of the firm of Russell & 
Co., he has for fortj'-two years applied himself 
very closely to the details of the business and is 
consequently familiar with every branch of tlie 
work, and especially with the iron department, of 
which he is Superintendent. 

The son of Cyrus and Louisa (Slralton) Russell, 
of whom mention is made in tiie sketch of .Joseph 
K. Russell on another page, our subject was born 
in Sutton, Caledonia County, Yt., October 27, 
1830. He spent his early years on his fatiier's 
farm, liis time being mainly devoted to agricultural 



488 



PORTRAIT A^'D BIOGRAnilCAL RECORD. 



work. May 30, 1850, when nearly twenty j'ears 
old, he arrived in Massillon, the journey hitlier 
having been made overland from Sutton to Bur- 
lington, thence by boat to Montreal, and from 
there up the St. Lawrence River to Genesee Falls. 
From Buffalo he proceeded via the steamer "Buck- 
cye State" to Cleveland, and from that place by 
stage to Massillon. 

After reaching Massillon, Mr. Russell was ap- 
prenticed to learn the trade of a moulder, but con- 
tinued at that occupation only four weeks. Find- 
ing the work uncongenial, he was apprenticed tu 
learn the machinist's trade, which he followed 
three _years and then entering his brother's employ, 
became foreman in the iron department. He was 
one of the original manufacturers of reapers in 
tlieir shops, which were then located on Erie Street. 
In .Tanuar}', 1864, he was admitted as partner in 
the firm, which was then known as N. S. & C. 
Russell, although in the fall of the same j^ear the 
title was changed to Russell & Co. A description 
of this prominent manufactorj- will be found in 
the biograi)hy of Joseph K. Russell. In addition 
to these interests, Mr. Russell is Vice-president, 
Du'ector and a stockholder in the Massillon Elec- 
tric Light, Heat & Power Company, of which he 
was an originator. 

In Lodi, Medina County, Mr. Russell owns a 
splendid farm of one hundred and thirty acres of 
well-improved land, which is occupied by a tenant. 
General farming is there carried on, and for a time 
full-blooded Durhams were raised, but afterward 
Mr. Russell turned his attention to horses and 
introduced roadsters, which are still raised there 
with success. He is the owner of an attractive 
residence on the corner of Xorth and Prospect 
Streets, one of the most elegant homes of Massillon. 

The lady who in Noveinber, 1890, became the 
wife of ]\Ir. Russell, was formerly known as Carrie 
.1. Culver. She was born in Cleveland, the daughter 
of William M. Culver, who was engaged in busi- 
ness as a hatter and furrier, first in Massillon, Ohio, 
and later at Ithaca, N. Y. By a former inarriage 
Mr. Russell had one child, who lived to maturity, 
a son, who was a graduate of Nazareth (Pa.) Mili- 
tary Academy, and became a practical machinist. 
He was married and resided in a beautiful home on 



South Erie Street, where he died in October, 1891, 
aged thirtjf-three years. He left four children, 
who now reside with their mother. 

A stanch Republican politically, Mr. Russell has 
served his party as a delegate to State and county 
conventions and h.is frequently been a member of 
the Count}' Republican Committee. For ten years 
he was a member of the Cit\- Council, representing 
the First Ward, and was President three years of 
the time. lie is not identilied with any church, 
but assists every denomination and contributes 
largely to religious causes. In his social connec- 
tions he is identified with Clinton Lodge Xo. 47, 
F. it A. M.; Ro^al Arch Masons, Knights Temp- 
lar, and belongs to Massillon Commandery No. 4. 



i RS. CAROLINE M( CULLOUGH EVER- 

|\ HARD is one of the most prominent women 
in Stark Count}', and is President of the 
Ohio Woman's Suffrage Societ}'. Her 
father, Thomas McCullough,was born near Steuben- 
ville, .Teflferson Count}', Oliio, on the 6tli of March, 
1810, and is descended from Scotch-Irish ancestors 
on both sides. Ilisgrandfather, John McCuUough, 
came to America with his family in the year 179.3 
and in 1799 located near Steubenville, Ohio, be- 
coming a pioneer of that secticm. He improved a 
place in true pioneer style, and there made his 
home until his death in 1827. The grandfather 
of our subject was married in Jefferson County, 
Ohio, to Miss Jane, daughter of Thomas Ritchie, 
who wasa native of the green Isle of Erin, and wiio 
emigrated to the "land of the free." Mrs. McCul- 
lough was a woman of strong character and more 
than the average intelligence. After marriage, lier 
husband kept an lK)tel for many j'ears in Jefferson 
County, and there he died in 1852. 

Tlie father of Mrs. Everhard, Thomas McCul- 
lougli, was the third in order of birth of ten chil- 
dren, and like the average farmer bo}' of that 
jieriod, received only a common-school education. 
When he was about twenty-two years of age. he 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



489 



went to Virginia, where he was engaged as Super- 
intendent on a plantation for four j-ears near 
Wheeling. In February, 1836, he came to JIassillon 
and was emplojed by the Massillon Rolling Mill 
Company to superintend the clearing and culti- 
vating of their vast farms. In 1840 this company 
failed, and in 1848 Mr. McCullough luuchased be- 
tween three and four thousand acres of land, of 
which Mrs. Everhard still owns four hundred acres. 
About 18.')l,he became connected as astockholder 
with the Massillon branch of the State Bank of Ohio, 
and later was made its President. In 1864 this 
company was merged into the Union National 
Bank of Massillon, of which he was made President, 
holding that position until 1873. He was one of 
the most prominent men of the county and a very 
successful farmer. 

Mr. McCullough was married to Miss Nancy 
Melendy, who was born near Guilford, Vt., March 
4, 1811, and died May 8, 1877. Her mother's 
maiden name was Marc^' Perry, a distant relative 
of Commodore Perry, of Lake Erie fame. Mr. 
McCullough was a very public-spirited and active 
man, and was engaged in various enterprises. He 
was one of the prominent members of the St. 
Timothy Episcopal Church and Senior Warden for 
many years. Formerly a Whig, he later espoused 
the principles oT tiie Republican party and was ac- 
tive in his support of its measiu-es. He was well 
informed on all subjects and was very genial and 
hospitable and an entertaining conversationalist. 
His death occurred in October, 1885. 

Mrs. Everhard was the only child who reached 
mature years, her birth occurring September 14, 
1843, in Massillon,wheroshe was reared. She was ed- 
ucated in the High Schools of her native town and 
later went to Media, Pa., where she was graduated 
from Maria L. Eastman's Seminary in 1864. On the 
7th of November, 1865, she married Capt. H. II. 
Everhard, a native of Jackson Township, this 
county, born November 15, 1837. The Captain 
was reared in Jackson Township and was educated 
in the Massillon High Schools but later entered the 
preparatory department of the college at Gambier. 
When the war broke he volunteered in Company E, 
One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry as Order- 
ly Sergeant and served with his company until ces- 



sation of hostilities. He was honorably discharged 
and mustered out with the rank of Captain. After 
this he took a business course at Pittsliurgh and 
has since been engaged in business here. He is 
proprietor of the Warthorst & Co. Stone (Juarry, 
is doing a large business and has latelj' erected 
a pressed brick plant. 

Mr. Everhard is a Director in the Union Na- 
tional Bank. lie has a fine farm in Perry Town- 
ship, lying south of the city, and his residence, a 
fine stone structure, is at the corner of Main and 
High Streets. Three children have been born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Everhard and are named as follows: 
Ethel, Melville McCullough and Marion. Mrs. 
Everhard has been an extensive traveler, has visited 
most of the States and is well informed on many 
subjects. She is President of the Woman's Suf- 
frage Association and is also Secretar\^ of the Hu- 
mane Society of Massillon. When her father died 
he was Trustee of the Charity Rotch School, and 
after his death, she was appointed by the Judge of 
the Court of Common Pleas to fill the vacancy — 
the first instance in the State of a woman, being 
appointed Trustee of a public institution where a 
bond is required, and she is now President of the 
Board. She is a woman of great talents and un- 
usual ability, and is always ready to promote any 
enterprise that works for the good of luimanit}-. 



\fl OIIN BLOOMFIELD. If a stranger should 
ask which is the most beautiful home in 
Plain Township, he would unquestionably 
J be answered, that of John Bloomfield, who 
is also one of the most pronunent men in this sec- 
tion of the county. An appreciation of what is 
beautiful and appropriate has been brought to 
bear in the arrangement of the family residence, 
that speaks volumes for the taste of the owner and 
his estimable wife; but without expatiation further 
upon this outer evidence of inward culture, let us 
turn to the personal history of our subject. 

Now a retired farmer, living just south of Oval 



490 



yOETEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



City, John Bloomfield was born in Bloomfield 
Townsbii), Crawford County, Pa., Februar3' 18, 
1821. lie is a son of Lewis and Elizabeth (Kirk) 
Bloomfield. The former was a native of New 
.Jersey and the latter of Pennsj-lvania. Grand- 
father Thomas Bloomfield, also born in New 
Jersey, was of English descent, his father having 
come from the Mother Country. He was a farmer 
and finally settled, lived and died in Pennsyl- 
vania. Lewis Bloomfield was drafted into the War 
of 1812, but was released on account of disability. 
He carried on, in connection with his farming, the 
business of a drover. On coming to Stark County, 
he settled in Marlboro Township, and there died 
at the age of eighty years. He was a member of 
the Baptist Church, and in politics, a Democrat. 

The original of this sketch was one of a family 
of ten children, there being five boys and five 
girls, who were named as follows: Joseph, Re- 
becca. Louis M., Elizabeth, Sarah A., John, Andrew, 
Judith, William E. and Susan. After rearing this 
large family. Mis. Bloomfield died at the age of 
seventy years. She was a Quakeress in her relig- 
ious belief. 

John Bloomfield was a boy old enough to ap- 
preciate the fun of the journey when his parents 
moved to this county, bringing their household 
goods as well as family with one ox-team and a 
three-horse team. The child attended the old log 
schoolhouse with its furniture of slab benches, in- 
clined planes for writing desks, and other pioneer 
educational appliances. Probably the boy thought 
more of the fine hunting to be had here, than of 
the limited school advantages, for there were 
turkeys, deer and many kinds of small game that 
had not yet learned to l)e shy of the few white 
settlers. 

Our subject began for himself at the age of 
twenty three, when he was married June 22, 1843, 
to Miss Rebecca Wise, who was born here, De- 
cember 17, 1822. A more extended sketch of the 
Wise family will be found in the history of Mrs. 
Bloom field's brother, L. J. Wise, in another portion 
of this volume. Our subject and his wife reared 
six children, who are named as follows: Louis A., 
lOmeline, Hiram, Cena, Elmer and John B. After 
marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Bloomfield first settled on 



land which he purchased in the northeast portion 
of this township on section 1. Their place of res- 
idence, however, was a log house on another por- 
tion of the section. He improved the farm, which 
comprised one hundred and ninety acres of land, 
erecting a good class of buildings. He then sold 
the place and purchased another farm in the north 
(piarter of this township. After living on that for 
a short time, it too was sold, and he built his 
present fine large, frame dwelling with its full 
complement of barns and outhouses, and set up 
his houseiiold goods and gods with the determina- 
tion to here spend in comfort the remainder of a 
long and useful life. Both Mr. and Mrs. Bloom- 
field are members of the Baptist Church of Canton. 
Our subject iniierits the political belief of his 
father, and votes the Democratic ticket. He has 
served as Trustee of the township several times, 
and was Postmaster at IMiddle Branch for several 
years. 






& GRACE II. WHITING holds the position 
\ of Secretary and Treasurer of the Bonnet 
Company at Canton. This company are 
extensive manufacturers of clay-working 
machinery for brick and pottery plants. Mr. Whit- 
ing was born in Ashland County, Ohio, M.-iy \b, 
18.t9. He is a son of David and Rebecca (Shearer) 
Whiting, both natives of the same county and 
State as is our subject. David Whiting, who was 
a carpenter and ji)iner by trade and who still lives 
in his native county, was the son of Samuel Whit- 
ing of New England and of English ancestry. 

Our subject's mother was a daughter of Solomon 
Shearer, of German descent. She is still the help- 
mate and companion of her husband in their ad- 
vanced }, ears, and has been the mother of seven chil- 
dren, of whom our subject is the fourth in order of 
birth. Horace II. Whiting passed his boyhood and 
earl}' school days in Ashland County. He was 
for a time a book-keeper in a manufacturing estab- 
lisliment, remaining there for twelve years and 
thence going to Fond du Lac, Wis. 



PORTRAIT AND lUOGRAPH'CAL RECORD. 



491 



On going to Wisconsin, Mr. Whiting took a po- 
sition as general agent witli Aultman, Taylor it 
Co., who were dealers in agricultural implements. 
He remained witli them for two years and in 181)0 
came to Canton. Since tliat time he lias been con- 
nected with the Peerless Reaper Company in the 
capacity of manager. He remained with them un- 
til the organization of the Bonnet Company, which 
is a successor of the Peerless Company. Our sub- 
ject's ability in a business line was recognized by 
his being unanimously appointed to the position 
which he now holds. The capital stock of the 
company is $100,000. The main building is a 
large three-story edifice, containing foundry, black- 
smith shops, etc. The machinery' is driven by a 
one hundred horse power engine and they con- 
stantly emplo,y from sixty to one hundred men. 

In 1885, Mr. Whiting was united in marriage to 
Miss A. A. Tubb, of Plymouth. She is a daughter 
of Henry Tubb. The family has a beautiful home 
that is located at No. 104 South Market Street. 



-^^- 



f(^_j^ENRY S. MOSES, of the firm of Moses A- 
Riemsnyder, dealers in furniture at Canton, 
was born in Carroll County, this State, De- 
cember 2, 18.38. He is a son of John and 
Rebecca (Statler) Moses, both natives of the Quaker 
State. The Moses family originally came from 
Switzerland. 

Several generations b.ack, our subject's great- 
grandmother was captured b^' the Indians in the 
Wyoming Valley Massacre, which occurred in 
Pennsylvania in the eighteenth century. She was 
only seven years of age when taken captive and 
was soon after released. (Trandfather Samuel 
Moses was a farmer by calling and died in Somer- 
set County, Pa. His ancestors were jill learned 
farmers and very successful. 

In 1832, .John Moses came to Ohio and located 
in what is now Carroll County. He purchased a 
farm, which continued to be his home until the 
time of his decease, which occurred in 1868. His 

25 



wife had died several years previously. They were 
the parents of ten children, four of whom 3'et sur- 
vive: Jacob resides on the old homestead; William 
lives in Decatur, Ind.; Henry S., and Margaret, who 
is the wife of M. W. Mansfield, of Webster City, 
Iowa, are the other living members of the famil}'. 
Those deceased weie Samuel, Margaret, John, Re- 
becca, Ellen and Martha. 

The original of this sketch was reared on the 
home farm and educated in the district schools. 
He had the advantages of a gentle and cultured 
home training and early became a teacher. On the 
breaking out of the war, he enlisted, in 1802, in 
Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Ohio 
Infantry. He served until the close of hostilities 
and was mustered out as a Sergeant-Major. He 
was wounded twice in the battle of the Wilderness 
and was in hospital for eight months. His last 
wound was received May 6, 1864. The ball en- 
tered the stomach, passed through the liver and 
body and came out at the back. He was at the bat- 
tles of Mine Run,Martinsburg and Petersburg and 
at the closing campaign preceding the surrender 
of Gen. Lee. He was a participant in the battle 
of the Wilderness and was through the entire Ap- 
pomattox campaign. He was discharged at Wash- 
ington June 28. 1865. 

On returning from the war, Mr. Moses engaged 
in the mercantile business at home, which he car- 
ried on for sixteen years, having stores at Dell Roy 
and Waynesburgh.' While living at the latter 
place, he was Township Trustee. In 1880, he came 
to Canton and embarked in the hardware business, 
which he carried on for two years, lie next em- 
barked in the manufactory of the Canton Car 
Company and was Secretary and Treasurer. This 
has since been merged into the J. II. McLain Ma- 
chine Company, and in 1890 he sold out his inter- 
ests and embarked with his present partner in the 
furnituie business. He has been a member of the 
School Hoard for si.\; years and is a stockholder 
and Director in the Home Savings and Loan Coiii- 
[lany. He is a member of the Grand Army of the 
Republic. 

Mr. Moses was m.Tn-ied, in 1865, to Miss Sarah 
C. Strayer, of Carroll County. She has been the 
mother of two cliildicn. Laura and Flora. Our 



492 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



subject and liis wife are members of the Presbyter- 
ian Church, of which he is President of the Board 
of Trustees. He owns considerable farming inter- 
ests in Carroll Count\- and has other valuable in- 
terest's. 



^ACHARY T. SHOEMAKER w.as born in 
Chanibersburg, Franklin County", Pa., .Tuly 
8, 184^. He is a sou of Henry and Eliza 
(Eb>-) Shoemaker, the former a native of Mary- 
land and the latter of our subject's native place. 
Henry Shoemaker was a millwright, and came to 
Stark County in 1851, making the journey hither 
with his wife and little family bv means of the 
prairie schooner. They located at Mavarre, where 
he engaged in trade, but later removed to Massil- 
lon, where he was employed by the railroad com- 
pany. On later going to Canal Fulton, he assumed 
the proprietorship of an hotel, and there died 
when about forty-eight years of age. His wife 
died in Massillon in 1889. at the age of seventy- 
six years. 

Of the seven children that were born to the 
Shoemaker family, five lived to be grown. Of 
these, our subject is the youngest. He attended 
school at Richville until fourteen years of age, 
that being the family place of residence after the 
father's decease. He spent his summers on a farm 
and the winters in school, but on leaving school 
entered a grocery store in the capacity of clerk. 

After spending two ^-ears as a grocer's clerk, 
Zachary Shoemaker went to Massillon, where for 
nine years he filled the position of chief clerk in 
the dry -goods establishment of Isaac B. Douglas. 
His employer had the greatest confidence in his 
honor and ability, and frequently entrusted him 
to purchase goods in the East for the firm. He 
was finally offered his present position as book- 
keeper with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, 
wliicli he has ever since maintained. At the same 
time, ho became interested in the real-estate busi- 
ness, and since that has built many houses. Our 



subject purchased six acres of land known as the 
Tailor Propert}^, and laid it out under the name of 
the J. T. Shoemaker Tr.act. This he built up and 
has disposed of some of the most valuable lots. 
Later, he purchased an addition on Walnut Street, 
where he built three houses. He now owns prop- 
erty in ever3' ward in the city. He also owns a 
fine farm in Lawrence Township, and has been 
quite largely interested in AVestern propert\-. 

Our subject was married November 27, 1876, to 
Miss Ella V. Ogle, a daughter of Capt. B. E. Ogle, 
one of the oldest captains on the Ohio River. 
During the Civil War he was in the Government 
emploj', having charge of a pilot boat. Mr. and 
Mrs. Shoemaker are the parents of four children, 
whose names are Helen, Vesta, Lucile and Frank 
T., respectively. Mrs. Shoemaker, who is a promi- 
nent woman and a great favorite in society, is a 
member of the Christian Church. Politicallv, our 
subject is a Republican. 



ILLIAM STOVER is a proniinent farmer 
i\\ ^, // residing on section 11, Lawrence Town- 
ship. He was born in this locality, Feb- 
ruary- 6, 1837, and is the eldest son of Samuel 
and Catherine (Krichbaum) Stover. For a more 
detailed history of the parents, we refer the reader 
to the sketch of George Stover in another portion 
of this volume. 

The original of this sketch was reared in his 
native place, and his first school experience was in 
the vicinity of home, and he later went for two 
years to a school in Canal Fulton. In 18,58, he 
married the ilaugiiter of Samuel and Lizzie (Leck- 
ron) liachtel, who was born in .T.ackson Township, 
Stark County. 

Immediately after marriage, our subject and his 
young wife located on the farm where they now 
reside. He had purchased this before marriage 
and at once set him.self to the work of improve- 
ment. They became tiie parents of threechildren, 
one daughter and two sons: Samuel, who is 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 



493 



deceased; Clara A. and Otis G. The daugh- 
ter is now a teacher in the High School at 
Canal Fulton. She is a graduate from the High 
School of Canal Fulton, and attended Adrian Col- 
lege, Mich. Otis graduates from the Iligii School 
of Cauiil Fnlton this coming spring. Neither of 
these 30ung people ever missed a day during their 
school lives and were never tardy. 

Our subject has been engaged in general farming 
and stock-raising and has made a siiecialty of breed- 
ing road liorses. He piefers the IIanil>letonians and 
Clays, and at one time owned the well-known mare 
"Mollie Buckner," also "Dattus," '"Black Harry 
Clay" and "T. H. Russell." He now keeps eight 
head of good road horses, and besides these his 
farm is noted for its cattle and sheep. He has one 
hundred and sixty-seven acres of as good farm land 
as there is in the county, and he has made the best 
of improvements on his place. 

Mr. Stover is a Democrat in politics. He was 
Trustee of the township for four years and Asses- 
sor for two years. He was Director of the County 
Infirmary for six years and also School Director. 
For tliree years he served as a member of the 
School Board. Fraternally, he is a Mason and 
belongs to the Blue Lodge and Elliott Lodge at 
Canal Fulton, taking great interest in the work. 
Although our subject is not connected with any 
religious body, he contributes generously to the 
support of (iospel teaching. 



♦^^^^^ 



ANIEL J. SNYDER. Many of the native- 
born citizens of this county have adopted 
'^^^ an agricultural career and accomplished 
their purpose of securing good homes, 
wherein all the comforts of our advanced civ- 
ilization may be enjoyed. Among this number 
was the gentleman above named, who depaited 
tins life December 20, 1890, at his beautiful iiome. 
Tlie estate consists of one hundred acres, on which 
stand the various outbuildings thought necessary 
by a progressive farmer, togetiier with a comforta- 



ble residence. The soil is naturally fertile, and 
every effort is being made to increase its produc- 
tiveness by a proper rotation of crops. 

Mr. Snyder was a native of this county, having 
been born June 21, 1846, and was the son of Reu- 
ben and Eliza Snyder, natives of Pennsylvania. 
Daniel J. was reared to mature years in Bethlehem 
Township and was trained to farm jjursuits, whicli 
calling he followed througliout life. Several years 
previous to his death, however, he was engaged in 
carrj'ing on an extensive agricultural implement 
business, in which branch of trade he was very suc- 
cessful. Young Snyder, like other farmer lads, 
received a practical education in the schools, and 
being eager to obt.iin a good education, ])ursued a 
systematic course of reading, and tlius olitained a 
good knowledge of books. 

October 22, 18(58, Daniel i. Snyder and P^v.aline 
Cogan, also a native of this county, and the 
daughter of .Toseph and Snr.ah Cogan, were united 
in marriage. Her father was a native of Pennsyl- 
vania, and emigrated to this county with his par- 
ents when very 3"0ung. Her mother was also a na- 
tive of the Keystone State, and became a resi- 
dent of this locality in her girlhood. After their 
marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Cogan located in Pike 
Townsliip, where the father, who was one of the 
prominent citizens and earlj' settlers died, Decem- 
ber 27, 1890, when in his eighty-first year. The 
mother, who is still living, makes her home in the 
above-named township and has attained a good 
old age. Of the ten children born to them six 
survive, namely: Evaliue, Jesse, Emeline, Amanda, 
Emzi and Lomas. 

Daniel Snyder, of this sketch, by his marriage 
with Miss Cogan became the father of three chil- 
dren: Elmer H., Florence A., and Myrtle O. He 
was a firm adherent of the Democratic party and 
took an active interest in school affaiis. having 
served as Director for several years. He gave lib- 
erally of his time and means for every worthy ob- 
ject, and deserves praise for the success he achieved, 
having raised himself from the position of a poor 
boy to that of a well-to-do agriculturist. 

He of whom we write was a prominent mcinlier 
of llu liiited Brethren Church, in which body 
lie has held the positions of Steward. Trustee and 



494 



PORTRAIT AND ETOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Sunda_y-school Superintendent. He was a man of 

fjood principles, and liis acts were guided by a liigh 
sense of honor and unswerving intogrity. His death 
was severely felt in his comnuinily, as lie was a man 
highly respected and widely known. In social 
matters, he was a member of the Grange, to which 
order his wife also belonged. The latter, as the 
j-ears come creeping on, is enjo.ying the conscious- 
ness of years well and profitably spent, and sur- 
rounded by warm personal friends, is going peace- 
fully down the [)atliwa_v of life. 



fillE INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING COM- 
PANY. In the columns of tlie Independent^ 
which is a familiar visitor to the htmie of 
almost every resident of Massillon in both daily 
and weeklj' form, the principles and ideas of its pub- 
lishers, J. O. R. and R. B. Skinner, are found re- 
flected. They are both energetic, live newspaper 
men, and from their hands conies a bright and 
spicy sheet, which is notable for its local news 
and the excellent reviews under editorial head- 
ings of events of national as well as local import- 
ance. Having identified our subjects with the 
work that promises to be their life work, let us turn 
to the personal history of these men who, though 
still young, have taken so prominent a place in 
the community. 

The father of our subjects, Mr. A. T. Skinner, 
was born in Kendall, now Massillon, August 15, 
1824. His father was Charles K., and was born in 
Hartford, Conn. His parents were farmers there, 
and the family estate covered a tract of what is 
now a portion of the city of Hartford. Charles 
K. was reared in his native State, and was engaged 
in woolen manufacture. He came to Ohio in 1812, 
making his way on horseback over the mountains 
from New York City to Kendall. He was then 
twenty years of age and found employment in the 
woolen factory in the town. Later, he leased it, 
and in 18:51 he liuilt a mill in Massillon on the 
corner of Factory :iii<l Charles Streets, put in 



power looms, and ran it on an extensive scale 
until his retirement from active business life. He 
died in 1875, at the age of eighty-four years. He 
was a clever man and an active projector of all 
public enterprises. The wife of Charles K. Skinner 
was Eliza Reed. She was born near Boston, Mass., 
and was a daughter of Thomas Reed, who was an 
early settler and farmer in .Tackson Township, 
this county. 

Our subjects' father was reared and educated in 
Massillon. Naturally, he spent a good deal of 
time in his father's woolen mills when a lioy, and 
early became an expert judge of all the branches 
of that industry. He was placed in charge of the 
woolen department, and continued with his father 
until they closed the factory. He had charge of 
the buying and shipping department, .and still 
continues in the business. His wife was Miss 
Cecelia Van Rensselaer, who was born in Canton. 
She was a daughter of Sanders Van Rensselaer, one 
of the earliest settlers of that city. She departed 
this life in 1881, leaving four children, whose 
names are Charles, J. O. R., Robert B. and Bessie. 

Both the gentlemen of whom we write were 
born, reared and educated in their present field 
of labor. The senior member, Mr. J. 0. R., is the 
Secretary and Business Manager of the company, 
and Robert is the Editor. The political tenor of 
the sheet which they send out is Republican and 
their following throughout the county is very 
large. 



■S^ LMER G. MYERS, M. D. One of the most 
|t<) skillful followers of Esculapius who is lo- 
/l' — J , cated in the city of Canton is the brilliant 
young physician whose name is quoted above. 
He was born in Reynoldsburgh, Franklin County, 
Ohio, June 4, 1863, and is a son of Henry W. 
Myers, also a native of Ohio, an able business 
man who now resides in Giandville. He in turn is 
a son of John Mj'ers, a native of Virginia, the 
family having located in that State at aii early 
day. The Myers are of German descent. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



495 



Our subject's mother was, prior to her marriage, 
Miss Sarah I'oolc. She is a native of England, 
and a daughter of Samuel Poole. Elmer Ci. Myers 
is the eldest of four children, having one sister 
and two brothers. His boyhood days were passed 
at Re3-noldsburgh, where he attended school. He 
later entered Dennison Univeisity at Orandville, 
where he was a student for three years. In tlie 
intervals of liis collegiate work, he was engaged 
in teaching. 

A position as Chief Clerk of the Railroad Blail 
Service, with headquarters at Indianapolis, Ind., 
was accepted by our subject, and retained for a 
year. He had read medicine for some time with 
Dr. .J. B. Dysart, of Reynoldsburgh, and had fully 
determined to fit himself for the life of a medical 
practitioner. On severing his connections with 
the mail service, he attended lectures at the Star- 
ling Medical College, of Columbus, Ohio, from 
whicii he was graduated in March, 1889. He then 
located at Fredonia, Licking County. After re- 
maining there for a short time, he came to Canton, 
where he has engaged in general practice. He has 
already established himself well, and is not onl^' 
liked by liis medical associates, but has a good 
practice in the city. He is a member of the Sur- 
gical and Pathological Society, and is a member 
of the Center Star Lodge at (irandviUe. 



^- 



-H- 



/^jE0Rf41 
{( SSI Ameri 
'^1 of Be 



^jE0Rr4E BADER. This prominent German, 
riean citizen, who is now a resident 
Betlilehem Township, is a native of 
AVurtcmberg, Germany, and was born August 29, 
1833. He was reared in his native land until 
eighteen years of age, at which time he emigrated 
to America, the date of his j^assage being in 18r)2. 
He took passage at Havre on a sailing-vessel, and 
after a voyage which lasted forty-tvvo days, he 
landed in New York Cit}' and (jroceeded directly 
to Ohio. 

For a numlier of years, our subject was a resi- 
dent of Tuscarawas Coinily. and was engaged in 



work on a farm. He was emploj'^ed by the month 
for a number of years, aud finally rented a place, 
which he worked for himself. Accumulating 
enough to purchase, he secured a farm of his own 
and has since constantly forged ahead in his ef- 
forts to amass a comfortable sum against the days 
when he shall be incapacitated for labor. Mr. 
Bader received a fair education in his native 
tongue, and since coming to this country has 
picked up considerable knowledge of the English 
language, enough to enable him to transact busi- 
ness advantageously. 

The original of this sketch was united in mar- 
riage with Christina Rapp, a native of Wurtem- 
berg. They are the parents of the following- 
children: Caroline, who is tiiewifeof Samuel Par- 
ker; Martha, William, Ollie; Rachel A., who is tiie 
wife of .John Richards; Clara, who is the wife of 
M. Smith; Mary, David, Lizzie and Ella. Mr. Bader 
now owns one hundred and twent3--five acres of 
land, which is well improved and very produc- 
tive. He is a self-made man, who has omitted no 
opportunity" to grow in every possible way. In 
church affairs, he and his family are Lutherans, 
and he has served in the cliurch as a Deacon. He 
has also been School Director for a number of 
years. In short, he is an intelligent, successful 
agriculturist, and enjoys tiie confidence of tlie 
business community. 



ACOB W. PAINTER. One of the finest 
liomesteads in Sandy Township is owned 
and occupied by Mr. Painter, wlio was 
born in Pike Townsliip, tills county, 
November 10, 1829. The soil of this tract of 
land is not better than that of many otliers in the 
locality, but it has been carefully and intelligently 
tilled and means have been taken to secure build- 
ini,s that will properly house the crops and stocks 
and give to the family i)leasant and commodious 
quarters. 'I'lie residence is a line structure, of 



496 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAIHICAL RECORD. 



pleasing architectural design and finished with 
many conveniences and means of enjoyment that 
our prosperous farmers are finding as necessary in 
their homes as in those of the dwellers in towns. 
The dwelling is surrounded by a beautiful lawn, 
and the attraction of the place is further en- 
hanced by the many lie.iutiful shrubs which 
adorn it. 

Mr. Painter traces his ancestry to (Terraany, 
whence his great-grandfather emigrated inauearl^' 
day and located in Pennsjivania. He was ac- 
companied on the journey to America liy two 
brothers, one of whom located with him in the 
Keystone State and the other made his home in 
New England. .Jacob Painter, the grandfather of 
our subject, was a farmer b3- occupation and in 
connection with cultivating the soil operated a 
gristmill. When coming into possession of tlie mill, 
he also purchased a negro with whom he agreed that 
if he would run the mill for seven years he would 
give him his freedom, a seven-year lease on a tract 
of land, two horses, two cows and a wagon. This 
contract was carried out in full. The grandfather 
was a very prominent man, served as a Judge in 
the Court of Common Pleas and represented his 
district for a number of terms in the Legislature. 
His sons were also influential citizens and well-tc- 
do farmers. He was a devoted member of the 
Lutheran Church and in politics voted for the 
Whig party. His good wife, who departed this 
life on her eighty-second birthday, was a remark- 
ably fine business woman and a well-educated 
lady. 

The father of our subject came to Pike Town- 
ship in September, 1829, and located in a log 
cabin on the property, which bore btit little im- 
provement. In 1840, he made the brick from 
which his residence was constructed and there 
resided until 18()(>, actively engaged in develop- 
ing his farm. For the succeeding two years, he 
made his home in Canton, and tiien returning to 
his country estate, remained there for eighteen 
months, when he again moved to the above city, 
where he died September 29, 1879. He was of a 
speculative turn of mind and devoted the greater 
portion of his time to buying and selling stock. 
With his wife he was an influential member of the 



Christian Church. He was a pronounced adherent 
of the Republican party, and took a deep interest in 
all things that pert.tiued to the highest interest of 
tlie communitj' of which he was a member. 

The maiden name of our subject's mother was 
Sarah A. Wynn; she was born in 1812, in West- 
moreland County, Pa., and is at present living in 
Canton at the advanced age of eighty-one years. 
Her father, .Jonathan Wynn, was a farmer in the 
Keystone State, wliere he died in 184(1, aged 
seventy-three years. His father, tlie great-grand- 
father of Mrs. Painter, came from AVales. In re- 
ligion he was a IJaptist and his wife a Presb3"ter- 
ian. Tlie parental family of our subject included 
twelve children, namely: .Jacob W., Lucinda, 
Sarah .J., Israel, Emeline, Savilla, Adeline, Mar- 
garet, Christopher, Isadore, Impertes and Luenima. 

.Jacob W. Painter of this sketch was reared to 
farming pursuits and educated in a log school- 
house. When eighteen years old, he taught school 
in Pike Township and later was similarly engaged 
for three terms in Carroll County, this State. 
After attaining his majority, he worked at home 
until Iwent^'-seven years of age, receiving for his 
labors i 120 per year. He saved -Si 00 each .year 
from his earnings, and subsequently going to 
Southern Illinois, taught school for three 3'ears in 
Wayne and White Counties. Afterwards he en- 
gaged in buying and selling stock over a territory 
of five or six counties, making the handsome 
profit of *2,000. On the outbreak of the Civil 
War, the Ohio River being blockaded, he was 
obliged to abandon that line of business and, re- 
turning home, he put in a crop of wheat on his 
father's farm. 

After his marriage, our subject purchased one 
hundred and seventy acres of his present farm, to 
which he added eiglitj- acres the follcjwing year. 
Later opening a coal bank, he was engaged in its 
successful operation for three years, clearing dur- 
ing nine months in the year 116 per day. Al- 
though having extensive interests in that direction, 
he did not abandon his farm duties, but carried 
them on at the same time with great proficiency, 
and in everything connected with his business he 
was honorable and above-board. He has manifest- 
ed much zeal in the prosecution of his affairs and 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



497 



has shown excellent judgment in carrying on 
every enterprise in whicli he engaged. 

The marriage of our subject with Miss Nancy 
A. Miller w.as solemized December 23, 1801. The 
lady was born in Tuscarawas County, this State, 
and became the mother of two children, one of 
whom is living, Violet, now Mrs. Homer Cooper, 
of Columbiana County, this State. Joseph died 
April 10, 1865, and the wife and mother passed 
awaj' December 10 of the same 3'ear. In 1867, 
Mr. Painter was married to Susan Leyda, whose 
parents came from Washington County, Pa., to 
Carroll County in 1820. 

The landed estate of our subject comprises four 
hundred and thirteen acres of choice farming land, 
the greater portion of which is under' exception- 
ally fine cultivation and is one of the most valu- 
able estates in the county. It is furnished with 
everything necessary and convenient in the way 
of farm buildings, and as an excellent manager, 
Mr. Painter has carried on his farming operations 
very profitably and occupies the front rank among 
the wealth}' citizens of Stark County. He is en- 
gaged in mixed farming and gives considerable 
time to the breeding of cattle, sheep, horses, etc., 
shipping stock to Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Buf- 
falo. His line residence, which was completed in 
1871, is a large and commodious structure and is 
supplied with all the conveniences of modern farm 
life. One of his laige barns was erected in 1868, 
and another even larger barn was put up in 
1887. Mr. Painter rents the greater portion of his 
land but gives his personal supervision to its cult- 
ivation. He has witnessed much of the growth 
of Stark County and it may well be his pride that 
he has contributed his quota toward its develop- 
ment and is materially adding to its prosperity. 
He is well known throughout this section of the 
State and none know him but to give him a full 
meed of respect and confidence. 

He of whom we write is one of tiie pillars in the 
Christian Church, while his wife is connected witli 
tiie Methodist denomination. In politics, he is a 
firm believer in Re[)ublican principles and was 
called upon bj' his fellow-citizens to serve as Land 
Appraiser in 1870. Socially, he is a member of 
the Masonic fr.aternity, in which order he stands 



very high. In addition to his agricultural pur- 
suits, Mr. Painter loans considerable money and 
has settled up several estates, one of which was 
valued at $40,000, another $21,000, and another at 
$18,000. He favors all things that will in any 
way improve his township and numbers many 
true friends among the people of the community 
where he has so long lived. 



PAVID P. WEIMER. ex-Trustee of Sugar 
) Creek Township, and a prominent and rep- 
resentative citizen, is a native of West- 
moreland County, Pa., and was born in May, 
1821. Thus it is seen that he is one of the ven- 
erable men of the vicinity, which is an additional 
claim to the regard and respect of his fellow-towns- 
men. Mr. Weimer is a son of Peter and Catherine 
(Berkey) Weimer. They were both natives of 
Pennsylvania and on both sides were of (lermaii 
extraction. 

When the original of this sketch was a youth of 
fourteen years of age, he migrated in company with 
his parents to Stark County and settled in the 
southern portion of Sugar Creek Township. Their 
first home there was a log cabin witli very few 
comforts and a great many deprivations and hard- 
ships. In those early days, when the country was 
not yet threaded with silver ribbons of rail- 
ways, and science had not yet been applied to agri- 
cultural labor, pioneer life and work were hard in- 
deed, and this our subject experienced both in its 
advantages and adversities. Our .subject's father 
died in 1867. David P. had been reared to man- 
hood in his adopted State and county and was 
inured to hard labor. His ambition supplemented 
the meagre advantages that he enjoyed in an edu- 
cational way, and he was enabled to teach, which 
he did for three years. With that exception, his 
life has been spent as a farmer. 

Mr. AVeimer has never had any idea of vegeta- 
ting in his calling, but has always kept posted on 
general as well as the local topics of the day. He 



498 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



was married August 13, 1848, to Elizabeth Ilurraw 
a native of Somerset County, Pa., and a daugliter 
of Adam and Rebecca Hurraw. She made liim an 
admirable wife and a congenial, lovingcompanion. 
Her decease, which occurred March 1.3, 1889, called 
forth the highest encomiums for her domestic vir- 
tues b\- all who knew her. Our subject is a Repub- 
lican in politics, and never neglects an opportunity 
to speak a good word for his party. For sixteen 
successive ^-ears he served as Township Trustee and 
was Clerk of Sugar Creek Township for some 
time. He is the owner of two hundred and ten 
acres of excellent farm land. 



*^l^ 



'^If OHN C. IIERSHEY is prominently connected 
with the farming interests of Stark County- 
and is one of the leading farmers and stock- 
raisers of Canton Township, where he owns 
a valuable farm, pleasantly located on section 24. 
He is a native citizen of this State, his birth 
occurring in the City of Canton, September 27, 
183.5. His father, .losepli Hershe^-, was a native 
of the Keystone State, where his birth occurred 
December 3, 1809. His father, the grandfather of 
our subject, was of German descent, and, in addi- 
tion to owning and operating two large farms, ran 
a distillery, which business Joseph Hershey also 
engaged in for some time. He later, however, 
learned the trade of a tanner, and although he 
began life with limited means, by industry and 
close attention to his business, attained a good 
position among his fellow-men. Deciding to make 
his future home in Ohio, he made the journey over- 
land, accompanied bj^ his wife and familj-, and stop- 
ping in the then hamlet of Canton he engaged in 
the butciier"s business for about two years, in part- 
nership with his brother-in-law, Samuel Petriek. 
Then, disposing of his interest in the shop, he 
removed to section 24, Canton Township, which 
was the property of his father-in-law, and establish- 
ing his family in the little log cabin which was on 
the place, began the work of clearing and tilling 



the soil. The man who would make a success of 
agriculture must be ready to take advantage of 
variations of the soil and climate and also to be 
keenly observant in regard to the methods of cul- 
tivation. The elder Mr. Hershey was for some 
years engaged in advancing the interests of his 
adopted county , and, with the exception of three 
years spent at the tanner's trade at Massillon, 
resided on the above farm until a few years prior 
to his death. Having had a stroke of palsy, he 
was unable to work and, removing to Canton, 
there resided until his death, which occurred 
November 25, 188(1. He was a devoted member of 
the German Reformed Church, and endeavored to 
promote the good of his fellow-men in every way 
possible and thus interested himself in that which 
was progressive. A Whig in politics, on the 
organization of the Republican party he always 
voted for its candidates. His wife who, previous to 
her marriage, was Jliss Lucy Brownwell, was born 
in Pennsylvania, and they became the parents of 
six children, four of whom are living, namely: 
John, William. Rebecca and Joseph. Like her hus- 
band, she was a devoted member of the (ierman 
Reformed Church, and died in 1846. 

George Brownwell, the maternal grandfather of 
our subject, was a native of Pennsylvania, where 
he was engaged as a butcher and drover. Having 
occasion to visit the Buckeye State in a business 
way, he became favorably impressed with the 
country, and in 1837, determining to make it his 
future home, came hither overland and pui-ehased 
the southwest quarter of section 4 in Canton 
Township. There he resided with the father of 
our subject, and died at an advanced age, respected 
by all who knew him. His father was of German 
birth, and, coming to America in an early day. 
located in Pennsylvania. 

Young IIerslie3', of this sketch, received his edu- 
cation in the district school and spent the intervals 
of study in the labors that usually devolve upon a 
farmer's son. He was only two years of .age when 
his parents removed to Canton on their farm and 
he has no recollections of other scenes than the 
primitive ones in the midst of which he was reared. 
Beginning in life for himself at the age of twenty- 
three years, he rented land, and January 27, 1859, 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



499 



was married to Miss Christina Deckard, wlio was 
l)orn iii this townsliip September 1, 1837. Slie 
was the daughter of Benjamin and Rachel (Swinc- 
liarL) Deeiiard, natives of Pennsylvania, the father 
liaving l)eeii horn in Berks Countv, Febriiar}- 6, 
1794, and the motlier August 1, 1797. Her 
father was a farmer 113- occupation and after his 
marriage, August 12, 1817, remained in his native 
State until 1828, when he made a trip over the 
mountains to Stark Count}- and located on the 
southwest quarter of section 28 in Canton Town- 
ship. Building a log cabin on his undeveloped 
farm, he at once began the preliminary work of 
clearing his tract and preparing it for cultivation. 
Canton Township received a valuable acquisition 
to its citizenship when Mr. Deckard took up his 
residence within its bounds. He was a man of 
remarkably strong constitution and a hard worker, 
making oak shingles at tiie advanced age of eighty 
years. To himself and wife was born a family of 
ten children, all of whom are living at the present 
time; He died January 31, 1888, aged ninety- 
three years, eleven months and twenty-five days, 
being preceded to the better land by his good wife, 
who died April 12, 1877. He was baptized and 
confirmed in his j'outh a member of the German 
Reformed Church, while Mrs. Deckard, who was 
reared in the Lutheran Church, was a member of 
that body. At the time of their decease, their 
loss was mourned bj' ten children, sixty-two grand- 
children and sixty-five great-grandchildren. 

Of the seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Her- 
shey, three are living: Louis, Charles B., and Ed- 
ward M. The four deceased are Emma M., Mary E., 
Clara L., and Howard F. After his marriage, our 
subject lived on rented property for about twelve 
years, when, in 1871, he moved upon his present 
farm, upon which he has placed a full set of sub- 
stantial and well-arranged buildings. Hisenergj', 
enterprise and business tact have been prominent 
agents in pushing forward the agricultural inter- 
ests of his township and in advancing its material 
prosperity. His estate comprises thirty-two and 
one-half acres and is adorned with a fine frame 
residence, which was erected in 1888, and a large 
barn built in 1871. He is engaged inmixed farm- 
ing and has on his phicc a great variety- of fruits. 



which keep the family supplied with their products 
in tlieir season. He and his good wife belong to 
the German Reformed Church and thesincerit\' of 
tiieir religion is siiown liy their conduct in the 
everydaj' affairs of life. Mr. Ilershey is a Repub- 
lican in politics and has served in the position of 
Assessor of his township. 



J. IIOGAN is the Master Mechanic for the 
C. Aultman AVorks, and also President of 
the City Water Works. He is a native of 
Waterloo, Seneca County, N. Y., and was 
born December 23, 1854. He is a son of John and 
Mar^- (Maloney) Hogan, both natives of Ireland, 
who settled in New York State on coming to the 
United States. His father was a farmer, and of 
the four sons and two daughters in the family 
four are now living. Of these our subject is tlie 
youngest. 

Mr. Hogan was reared in his native county. 
He was only six months old when his father died, 
and the family removed to AVaterloo, where he 
received a good education in the public schools. 
He was but fifteen 3ears of age when he began to 
learn his trade as a mechanic. He served a full 
apprenticeship in Waterloo, and after perfecting 
himself he went to Albany, N. Y., where he worked 
for a few j-ears. Thence he went to Palmyra, N. Y. 
and was employed in the Globe Printing Press 
Works. From there he went to Phelps, N. Y., and 
was employed in engine building. 

On first coming to Ohio, our subject went to 
Akron, but made only a short stay there, when he 
went to Batavia, N. Y. In 1876, he came to Canton 
and became engaged with the Aultman Company, 
who manufacture thresliing-machines and engines. 
H ' was a journeyman worker at first, but was soon 
promoted, and finallj' became foreman of these 
immense works in 1882, whicli position he still 
fills, having charge of about two hundred men. 
His personal attention is given to the engine- 
building department. As a meciianic, Mr. Hogan 



500 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



has few, if any, superiors, and his work for the 
firm soon proved this fact. He has gained for 
himself since coming to Canton many friends, 
and is now serving his third term as President of 
the Board of Water Works. He has also been 
President of the Board of Equalization for two 
terras. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, 
and also belongs to the Royal Arcanum. He be- 
longs to two orders of American Mechanics. 

Our subject was married in 1879 to MissLetilia 
Whiteleather, a daughter of Dr. Whiteleather, of 
this county. From this union there have been 
born five sous: Thaddeus, Ludwill, Russell, Max 
and I'aul. 



-^ 



7 RANK M. WYANT is the Secretary and 
Treasurer of the Wrought Iron Bridge 
Company of Canton, Ohio. He was born 
in Mt. Pleasant, Jefferson County, this State, 
October 26, 18.58, and is a son of William H. and 
Anna (Withrow) Wyant. His father and mother 
were both natives of this State. The former was 
a photographer and followed that calling until the 
close of the war. He was then emploj'ed by the 
Government as Revenue Assessor for the Seven- 
teenth District of Ohio, which position he held for 
a number of j^ears. 

William Wyant was afterward employed as a 
storekeeper, and until 1877 acted as gauger in 
tlistilleries for the same district. Since then he 
has been employed in the coal business, and is now 
with the Universal Machine Company of Canton. 

Frank W. Wyant is the eldest child and only 
son of a family of four. He passed his youth in 
this city, and here enjoyed good school advan- 
tages. After finishing his school days at the age of 
thirteen, he was emplo3'ed in the City Bank as city 
messenger, remaining with that corporation until 
they closed business in 1875. From that time 
until 1882, lie held a position as i)aying and re- 
ceiving teller in the First National Bank of Can- 
ton, and in 1882 he was employed as book-keeper 
in the Wrought Iron Bridge Company. Three 



years later he was elected Secretary with the same 
company, and the following year was elected See- 
retar}' and Treasurer, which position he now holds. 
He is also a member of the Board of Directors of 
the same company. 

In 1880, Mr. Wyant married Miss Elinora Mid- 
daugh of this city, a daughter of Nelson Mid- 
daugh. Our subject and his wife are the proud 
parents of two sons, whose names are AVilliam and 
and Ralph. As a member of the City Board of 
Trade, Mr. Wyant has been of great service to the 
city. He is one of the Directors of the Board. 
Fraternally, he belongs to Canton Lodge No. 60, 
F. & A. M., and is also a member of Canton 
Chapter No. 84, R. A. M., and Commandery No. 
38, K. T. That he stands high in Masonry, is 
shown by the fact that he belongs to Alkoraii 
Temple and to the Mystic Shrine at Cleveland, 
Ohio. The family residence is located at No. 
238 North Cleveland Avenue. It is a hand- 
some frame structure of modern architecture, con- 
taining all the latest improvements, and with the 
most perfectly ordered surroundings. That its 
interior is quite in keei)ing with the exterior, goes 
without saying, for its mistress is a woman of taste 
and culture. 



^ OHN YFTZEY. Our subject is one of the 
old-time residents of North Industry, and 
belongs to that devoted class of people who 
are known as Dunkards. He w.as born in 
this township on section 17, March 28, 1822. He 
is a son of (4eorge Yutze^-, a native of Germany, 
who came to America with his parents when a 
youth of but nine years of age. The voyage 
across was made in the davs of the slow sailing- 
vessels and consumed seventy-five days. 

George Yutzcy's family settled in Somerset 
County, Pa., and later came to Stark County and 
settled in Canton Township. This was at a time 
when there were only two or three log cabins on 



PORTRAIT A^■D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



501 



the present site of Canton. The family entered a 
tract of (Jovernnient land there, and there Grand- 
father Yutze.v died. There were then plenty of 
Indians in the country, and although they fre- 
quently frightened the white settlers, they were as 
a rule friendly. Deer and small game abounded 
in this well-watered and fertile region and the 
terrifying howls of wolves were often heard around 
the cabin. 

The Yutzey family located in North Industry 
Township about 1820. They built a log cabin in 
the woods and began to clear up their farm. The 
nearest market was at Cleveland, and when the 
father went to dispose of the produce of the farm 
or of the skins which he secured, he brought back 
with him leather and salt. He was a hard worker, 
and amassed what was at that time a nice compe- 
tency. He owned two farms comprising one hun- 
dred and sixty acres each. His wife's maiden name 
was Catherine Gerber, who was born in Somerset 
County, Pa. Siie reared the following children: 
Annie, John, Lizzie, Darid and Martha. By a previ- 
ous marriage she was the mother of two children. 
She died at the age of seventy-eight years. Her 
husband was a devoted chuix-h member and a lay 
preacher for the greater part of his life. He was in 
S3-mpathy with the Whig party. 

Our subject's maternal grandfather was Christian 
Gerber, a native of Pennsylvania, and one of the 
earliest settlers in Canton Township, this county, 
where he entered considerable Government land. 
He was quite a hunter and bore the marks of an 
encounter with a bear to his grave. He developed 
a farm, where he spent the remainder of his life 
and died at a good old age. John Yutzey was 
reared on the home farm and learned the "three 
R's" in the pioneer log schoolhouse. He recol- 
lects seeing herds of deer and (locks of wild turkey. 
He helped his father develop the farm and began 
for himself at the age of twenty-two years. 

Our subject was married in 1844 to Hannah 
Flickinger, a native of Tuscarawas County. They 
liecamc the parents of five children, of whom three 
arc yet living. They are David, Jacob and Amos. 
Mr. and Mrs. Yutzey settled after marriage on a 
part of the home farm, and our subject combined 
the carpenter's trade with his work .as a farmer. 



He received fifty-nine acres belonging to the old 
homestead and now owns two hundred and ten 
acres, nearly all of wliich are well improved. He has 
three good farms which are distinguished by the 
excellent class of buildings they bear. He devotes 
himself to mixed farming, raising stock and grain 
principally. He has also raised some very fine 
sheep, and both fine and coarse wools tind a ready 
market when offered by him. In his business as a 
carpenter, he has i)ut up many of the houses and 
barns in this county. 

Mr. Yutzey lost his first wife in 1887. Two 
years later, he again married, his bride being Han- 
nah Lance, who was born in Holmes County. Mr. 
Yutzey and his wife were both members of the 
German Baptist Church, in which our subject is a 
Deacon. He is a Republican in politics, and has 
been very successful in his financial business. 



'JIJOIIN H. SMITH, foreman for C. Aultman X- 
Co., of Canton, has spent almost his entire 
^,^1 I life in Stark, his native countj'. He was 
(^^ born in Plain Township, July 18, 1830, and 
is a son of John D. and Mary (Hollinger) Smith, 
both of whom were natives of P'ranklin County, 
Pa. The former was born January 16, 1783, and 
the latter in 1788. They were married in the Key- 
stone State, and in 1814 left the East, emigrating 
to Ohio. They settled upon a farm in Plain Town- 
ship, Stark County, where, in the midst of the then 
unbroken forest, Mr. Smith hewed out a farm, be- 
ing the estate which adjoins the present County 
Infirmary farm on the south. He continued to 
engage in the cultivation and improvement of the 
land until his death, which occurred in 1851. His 
wife passed away some years previous, being called 
to the home beyond in 1840. They were pioneer 
settlers of this county, where they located ere the 
Indians had left for their AVestern reservations, 
and endured all the hardsliips of frontier life. Mr. 
and Mrs. Smith were the parents of eight children, 
seven of whom grew to mature years, of whom our 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



subieet and three sisters are yet living, viz: Eliza- 
betli, ,a widow, now in lier seventy-sixth yeav, who 
occupies tlie old liomestead; Margaret, born Octo- 
ber 21, 1821, is a widow, residing in New Ticrlin, 
and Delilah, wlio was born January 13, 1827, 
is the wife of diaries Martin, of Plain Township. 

The subject of this sketch is the youngest of tlie 
family. In the usual manner of farmer lads, the 
da3's of his boyhood and youth were passed. He 
remained at home until eighteen 3'ears of age, 
when in the spring of 1849, he went to Canton to 
learn the carpenter's trade, which he followed un- 
til 1854. In that year, he entered the employ of 
C. Aultman & Co., and worked in the wood de- 
partment until 1865, when he purchased an inter- 
est in the works. To this line of business he has 
since devoted his energies witii excellent success. 
He traveled as general agent for throe successive 
years and has since been in tiie works, having 
charge of the buying of the lumber, great quanti- 
ties of which are used. 

In 1853, Mr. Smith was joined in wedlock with 
Miss Catherine E. Lovett, of Canton, the eldest 
daughter of Rodman and Catherine (Lovett), wlio 
emigrated to Ohio, in 1830. Her father is still liv- 
ing and is a resident of Rome City, Ind., being now 
in his eighty-fourth 3'ear. Mr. and Mrs. Smith reside 
at No. 85 South Cleveland Aveniie. Tliey have a 
wide acquaintance throughout the community and 
their friends arc many. 



WIOIIN MOr.LEY. Death has laid an icy 
I finger upon the heart of the man who was 
^^ ! known b3' tlie name above to so extensive 
^^J a circle of friends and business acquaint- 
ances. He ever held a high place in the esteem 
of his fellow-ineii, and his example, like that of 
other good men is liy no means U)St to his family 
or the cominuiiity of wiiieh he was so important 
a factor. 

Mr. ]\Iobley was born in Wa^-ne County, Ohio, 
near Orville, February 15, 1815. His father, E. 



Mobley, was a native of the Isle of Man. His 
mother's maiden name was Sarah Bare. Our sub- 
ject was the eldest of a family of seven children, 
and the diild was early made to feel the reality 
of life, for he was bereft of a father's care and 
protection at the age of fourteen. He started out 
for himself at that time and gave liis assistance to 
his mother toward rearing the rest of the family. 
He had received a good foundation for an Eng- 
lish education in the common schools near his 
home. At the age of eighteen years, he was ap- 
prenticed to learn the saddler's and harness 
maker's trade, working at Canton under John 
Buekiie. After mastering it, he started a similar 
business for himself at Brookfield, but only re- 
mained there two years. 

Our subject was married April 12, 1834, to Mary 
Gibson. The same year they located at Canal 
Fulton, to which place he moved his saddlery and 
harness business, conducting it in connection with 
a tan-3'ard. He later sold out the first-mentioiied 
interest and started the shoe business, which he 
continued in until about one year preceding his 
death, when he retired from active business. 

After the death of his first wife, Mr. Mobley was 
again married, April 28, 1 847, this time to M iss Mary 
Augustine. She was born one mile /from Brook- 
field, April 29, 1828, and is a daughter of An- 
drew A. and Elizabeth (Slusser) Augustine. Both 
parents died when Mrs. Moble}- was a child of but 
five years of age, the father being a victim of 
the cholera. They left a family of eight chii- 
dren, two of whom were married. Rebecca is the 
wife of Jacob Ritter, and Amanda, the wife of 
Benjamin Boman. Each of these sisters took 
three of the children to rear. Mis. Mobley en- 
tered the family of her sister Rebecca, and re- 
mained with her until ten years of age, when she 
went to live with a cousin. Her marriage took 
place while she was an inmate of that family. 

Mrs. Mobley has been the mother of three chil- 
dren, all of whom are deceased. They were 
as follows: Charles A., who left a wife and two 
children; Francis F. and Ellsworth E. The last 
son died January 8, 1892. John Moble^' was at 
one time a Democrat; later, he became a Re- 
publican, and during the last two years of his life 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



503 



espoused the cause of the Prohibitionists. He was 
a member of the School IJoard and also of the 
City Council. Praternally, he belong;ed to the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and in church 
relations was, with his wife, a Methodist. B}' his 
first marriage, he was the father of four daugh- 
ters, two of whom died in infancy. Lctitia, who 
became the wife of M. E. Wilcox, died in 1877; 
Belle is the wife of S. F. Cling and resides in 
Canal Fulton. 



^l ACOr. REIXOEIIL is a prominent and influ- 
ential pioneer citizen of Stark County, who 
resides in Tuscarawas Township on a fine 
v^g^/ farm located on section 3. He is a native 
of Lebanon County, Pa., where he was born 
March 23, 1825. He is a son of Henry and Mollie 
M. Reinoehl, both of whom were natives of Penn- 
sylvania and of German origin. Henry Reinoehl 
migrated witii his family from Pennsylvania to 
Stark County in 1831, making the journey hither 
in compan}' with several other families witli wag- 
ons. The exodus consumed about twenty-one 
days. After arriving here, tiie Reinoehl fam- 
ily settled on the farm where our suliject now re- 
sides. It had been partially cleared before they 
came to it and bore a small log house, which 
was the home. The Reinoehl fainil}' comprised 
eleven children, and of tlicse three only survive. 
They are: Mary, who lives in Massillon; Daniel, a 
resident of the .same place, and oui' subject. 

Jacob Reinoehl grew up in his adopted home 
amid scenes of pioneer life. His boyhood days 
were largelj- occupied in clearing and improving 
the farm, in connection with his father and bro- 
thers. The public roads, too, came in for a shaie 
of their attention and labor. Ills knowledge of 
the "three R's" was acquired in tlie old log cabin, 
where slabs, supported by pins, served as benches, 
and inclined boards, ranged along the sides on 
the walls, served as writing-desks. He finished 
his education, iiowever, in a better sciiool. 



Our subject was married, October 25, 1865, his 
bride being Miss Mary A. Sponsler, who was born 
in this county, November 25, 1848. She was a 
daughter of Alexander and Mary Sponsler, early 
settlers of Tuscarawas Township Her mother still 
survives and lives in Illinois. By this union, Mr. 
and Mrs. Reinoehl became the i)arents of two 
daughters: Carrie D. and Ida M., the latter the 
wife of Frank Shou|). Our subject owns one hun- 
dred and eight3'-flve acres of land, and is reaping 
the fruits of his energy and industry in the com- 
petency he now enjo^'s. 

For a number of years the original of this sketch 
has served as School Director, and has also held 
other minor offices. Politically, he casts his vote 
and influence with the Republicans. In church 
affairs, he is identified with the Lutlieran denom- 
ination. 

As a pioneer, Mr. Reinoehl has witnessed the as- 
tonishing growth of this section of country, and 
especially that of the city of Massillon. Within 
his memory it was but a small hamlet. The 
greater portion of his life has been spent on the 
farm where he now lives. Mrs. Reinoehl is a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran Church, and both she and her 
liusb.and are hi"lilv esteemed in social circles. 



"ili'UDGE .lOHN AV. ALBALfill, .Tudgeof the 
Fifth Judicial Circuit of Ohio, and a prom- 
inent lawyer of Canton, has the honor of 
being a native of the Buckeye State. He 
w.as born on the 4th of July, 1844, in Tuscarawas 
County, and is a son of Ezra and Elizabeth (Wal- 
ters) .\lbaugh. His father was born in Carroll 
County, Ohio, February 1.'?, 1807, and was a son of 
William Alljaugh, who was a native of Marjiand, 
and of (ierman descent. Ezra Albaugh was a far- 
mer by occupation, and followed that I)usiness 
throughout his entire life. He married Elizabeth 
Walters, who was born in Holiday Cove, Va., 
.lanuary 27, 181!), and was a daughter of Jacol) 
Walters of Irish descent. During her girlhood 



504 



PORTRAIT AND BlOGRAPllICAL RECORD. 



she came to Ohio, her parents settling in Tuscara- 
was County, where slie was reared. After their 
marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Albaugh located upon a 
farm in that county, where they sjjent tlie re- 
mainder of their lives. His death occurred Ajjril 
4, 1885, and iiis wife, who survived him about six 
years, died January 14, 18!H. They were tlie 
parents of thiiteen children, but only four lived 
to maturity. 

The Judge is the eldest of the surviving mem- 
bers of the family. He spent his bo^'hood days in 
the labors of the farm and in attendance at the 
district sciiool during its winter sessions. His ed- 
ucation was completed in a select school. He be- 
gan teaching at the age of eighteen years, and fol- 
lowed that profession for several terms, during 
which time he reached the determination to make 
the practice of law his life work. He began read- 
ing in the office of Judge Jai es Patrick, of Xew 
Philadelphia, and after tliorough preparation was 
admitted to the Par, April 25, 1869, in Carrollton, 
Ohio. He located in New Pliiladelphia in Octo- 
ber of the .same .>ear, and formed a partnership 
with .Judge J. H. Barniiill. the connection continu- 
ing until 1872, wlien Mr. Albaugh was elected 
Prosecuting Attorney of Tuscarawas County for a 
term of two years. In 1874, he formed a partner- 
ship with Hon. John S. Graham, and, as a member 
of the firm, continued to engage in legal practice 
until 1882, vvlien he went to Canton, Ohio, and be- 
came a member of the firm of Albaugh & Welty, 
his partner being John C. Welt^'. This connec- 
tion continued until 1884, when our subject was 
elected Circuit Judge for two years to lill n va- 
cancy. In 1886, he was re-elected for a term of 
six years, and on tlie expiration of the term will 
have served in that office eight years. His eircuit 
comprises the fifteen counties of Stark, Wayne, 
Holmes, .\shland, Richland, Delaware, Morrow, 
Knox, Fairfield, Licking, IMuskingum. (O.shdcton, 
Tuscarawas, ]\Iorgaii, and Perry. 

On the With of August, 1866, Judge Albaugh 
was united in marriage with Miss Estella Seran,of 
New Cumberland, Tuscarawas County, daugliterof 
IMicajali and .Sarah Seraii. Fnto them have been 
l)0rn two sons, Tiiiirlow K. and Walter A. Tiieir 
home Is situated at No. 242 >[ortli Market Street. 



The Judge and his famil}' are widely and favora- 
bly known in the community, and have a large 
circle of friends and acquaintances. 

In liis political affiliations. Judge Albaugh is a 
Demcjcrat. He is a prominent lawyer, well versed 
in his profession, and has been very successful in 
practice. As a Judge his rulings are wise and 
just, unbiased by fear or favor, and lie lias won 
high encomiums from all who have marked his 
career in this line. 



m>^^<t 



iTiOHN C. FUKMONT PITMAN. The im- 
provements lliat have taken place in the 
dry-goods industry have made establish- 
ments engaged in that business veritable 
bazaars. A prominent dry-goods house in ^las- 
sillon is the "Bee-Hive," conducted by Allman it 
Putman, and which is located at Nos. 11 and 13 
West Main Street. This is in all respects the lead- 
ing establishment of its kind in the city, if not in 
the county, and a very complete assortment of 
everything in their line is carried, every depart- 
ment being replete with the latest novelties. The 
prices quoted, too, are rock-bottom figures, 3et no 
inferior goods are placed in stock, patrons being- 
assured of receiving honest value and satisfactory 
treatment in this deservedly popular store. TIip\' 
carry a large and complete line of carpets of all 
the latest patterns, and as they go to Boston and 
New York Cit^' six times a year, they are sure to 
have all the newest and latest styles. The licmse 
also enjoys tiie reputation of being emphaticallv 
the headquarters for bargains in all kinds of dress 
goods. The junior member of the firm, J. C. F. 
Putman. is an excellent business man, and is clever 
and accommodating. He was born in Beach City, 
Stark County, Ohio, and is a son of T. C. Putman. 
who was born in Wilmot, Ohio. 

The paternal grandfather of our subject, John 
Putman, was born near Lancaster, Pa., and was of 
English descent. The first of his family who emi- 
grated to this country were two brothers, one of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



505 



whom settled in Vermont and the other in Penn- 
sylvania, and our subject is a descendant of the 
Pennsylvania brancli. The grandfather followed 
the occu|)ation of a farmer in his native State for 
many ^-ears, hut the fertile soil of Ohio tempted 
him to settle within the borders of that State 
and lie located at Wilmot at an early date. The 
country was almost a wilderness at that time. He 
devoted his time principally to farming and there 
passed the closing scenes of his life, dying in 1880, 
when eighty-four j'ears of age. The fatlicr of our 
subject, T. C. Putman, w.as reared on a farm, and 
when it became necessary for him to clioose some 
calling in life, it was perhaps only natural that he 
siiould select the one to which he had been 
reared. lie i)urchased a farm near Wilmot, and 
added to it from time to time until he had 
eiglit hundred acres of well-improved land. He 
now resides in Beach City and from his pretty 
rural and attractive home he can looii over five of 
his farms. He has been unusually successful and 
is principal!}' engaged in stock-raising. 

At the first tap of the drum during the Civil 
War, lie enlisted in the Fourth Ohio Infantry as 
Lieutenant and his first engagement was the battle 
of Bull Run. He remained in service three months 
and tlien returned to the peaceful pursuit of farm- 
ing. He is a member of the Grand Army of the 
Republic and in politics is a strong Republican. For 
nine years he was Infirmary Director of .Stark 
County, and has held other positions of trust. In 
his religious views, lie is a Methodist and an active 
worker in that church. He married Miss Elizabeth 
( irittith, a native of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Iler 
lather, who was of a prominent New England 
family, settled in Tuscarawas County, and was at 
one time in charge of the Sugar Creek Falls Water 
Cure. Later, he removed to Butler, Ind., and there 
his death occurred. Four children were born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Putman, only two of whom reached ma- 
ture years, our subject and his sister Alice, who is 
now Mrs. C. B. Allman, of Massillon. 

The original of this notice was liorn on llic 10th 
of July, 1856, and remained on his father's farm 
until he had completed a district-school education. 
.\fter this he attended the Massillon High Sciiool 
and finished at Mt. Union College, this county, 



where he remained one year. He then started in 
business for himself at Wilmot, luider the firm name 
of Putman & W.yandt, in the dry-goods business, and 
there laid the foundation for his subse(iuent pros- 
perous career. This firm continued for three 
years, and then our subject and INIr. Leighley 
bought out Allman S: Wetter and continued the 
business under the firm title of Putman S: Leighley. 
This lasted until 1885. Two years later, Mr. Leigli- 
lej' retired and the firm has since lieen condnolod 
under the title of Allman it Putman. 

Our subject was married in Orville, this Stale, 
in 1885, to Miss Clara Beidler, daughter of Joseph 
Beidler, who was born in Wayne County, Ohio, 
and who was an old settler of that county. The lat- 
ter followed farming in Wayne County for many 
years, was afterward in the dry -goods business, but 
is now engaged in the furniUire business. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Putman has fjeeii born one child, Helen. 
Mr. Putman is a member of the Knights of Pythias 
and is also a member of other orders. In politics, 
he is an ardent suiiporter of Re[)ublican [ninciples. 



<-«\ I^ILLIAM LICHTENWALTER. The genial 
\rJ// gentleman who so ably fills the office of 
^^^ City Clerk in Canton, Ohio, is he whose 
name is quoted above. He was born in Crestline, 
Crawford County, this State, August 14, 1855. His 
parents were Abraham and Mary (Retz) Licliteii- 
walter. The fatlier was a lumber dealer, purchas- 
ing large amounts of walnut from Chicago jiarties. 
He followed this business until his death, which 
occurred in January, 1867. 

The original of this sketch is the third in order 
of birth of a family of six children, there being 
three boys and three girls, of whom four are now 
living. Grandfather John Liclitenwalter jiassed 
his last days in Stark County, as did also the 
great-grandfather, who died in his eightieth year. 
The family, in its different raniilicaticms, is very 
extensive, and at four reunions which were held, 



506 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



there were two tliousaud persons present, some 
coming as far as Australia in order to trace tiieir 
ancestry in this country hack fur two hundred 
years. 

Our subject passed liis early boyhood days in 
Indiana, and at the tender age of eleven he 
entered a printing office. He later pursued the 
same calling at Wabash in the same State, and from 
there moved to Warsaw. He came to Canton in 
1870, wlien he entered the office of the Stark 
County Democrat, at that time a weekly paper. He 
was employed as a compositor, and was on that 
paper for eight years. He then became associated 
with the Canton lieposiUjry, remaining in that em- 
ployment until 1891. The following month he 
was elected City Clerk on the straight Repul)lican 
ticket, and has since that time faithfully performed 
the duties incident to the office. For thirt.y-five 
3-ears he has b.een associated with his partly, and is 
recognized as one of its valued local workers. He 
has the honor of being the only Republican who 
has ever represented the Fifth Ward, which is 
strongly Democratic. In 189(1, he was appointed 
Census Enumerator for his ward. Fraternally, 
Mr. I.ichtenwalter is a member of the American 
Legion of Honor. He also belongs to the Knight* 
of Pytliias. 

Our subject was married in 1878 to Miss Ollie 
Ballard, of the city of Canton. She is a daughter 
of James F. Ballard. They have three sons: Frank- 
lin B., William Whitcomb and Donald O. 



h^-^i 



Jl'OHX J. L. DIMOXT was for many years 
one of the most prominent and best-known 
citizens of Stark County, where he was a 
thrifty and wide-awake agriculturist, hav- 
ing a good estate located in Perr3- Townshi|). He 
was a native of France, having been born near 
Paris, .July 25, 1816, and was the son of Louis and 
Mary A. ((iilletle) Duniont, l)Oth of whom were 
also natives of that Reiiulilic. Ilis father was a 
soldier in the French army under Napoleon tlie 
Great and participated in many important battles 



under that Geaeral. Mr. Dumont loved his 
adopted country and its institutions, and was an 
honest, upright citizen and a kindlj' gentleman, 
whose friendly and unassuming ways and genial 
hospitality at his home near Massillon did much to 
brighten and to ciicer the circles of social inter- 
course. He was a kind husband and loving father, 
and b}' liis death, at the age of seven ty-tlve years, 
a true Christian man was removed. 

When eighteen years of age, our subject came 
with his parents to this countiy, taking passage 
at Havre on a sailing-vessel, and after a tedious 
voyage of fortj- days landed in New York, whence 
they i)roceeded directl3- to this county, making lo- 
cation in .Jackson Township. Our subject was 
given an excellent education in his native tongue 
and after coming to the New World gained a fair 
knowledge of the English language. He was a 
man of extraordinary energ}', enterprise and busi- 
ness tact, and under his vigorous management his 
estate yielded him an excellent income. 

August 28, 1840, .lohn Duniont and JlissMclina 
M. Mary, who was born in Belfort, Alsace, France, 
October 22, 1820, were united in marriage. The 
lady was the daughter of Nicholas and Mary T. 
(Marcono) Mary, also natives of that country and 
who emigrated to America when Mrs. Dumont was 
six years of age. Immediately upon landing in 
New York City, they came West to this county 
and made their home in a log cabin. That rude 
structure later gave waj- to a more comfortable 
residence after the fatlier had placed his land un- 
der more tliorough cultivation and it began to 
yield an income. Mrs. Dumont was reared to 
womanhood in her native county and after her 
marriage removed with her husband to -Jackson 
Township, where the^' were residing at the time of 
our subject's decease. Since that time, Mrs. Du- 
mont has made her home with her daughter, JMis. 
Calvin Clay, who is residing in Prriy 'i'ownsliii), 
near Massillon. 

To our subject and his estimable wife weie born 
eight children, seven of whom survive. Henr^', 
the eldest son, is a farmer and owns a beautiful 
farm of two hundred and fifty acres near Chagrin 
Falls, Ohio. He married Jane Clay and they have 
four children: Edward, John, Clara and Emma. 



PORTRAIT AKD BIUGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



507 



Hermance, wife of J. I. C'la\', also lives near 
C'li?.gi'in Falls, Ohio, where they owd a fine farm, 
containing over two hundred acres of land. They 
have two boys, Cassious and Edward. 

Aniclious married Nancy Sholder and is now 
living at Canton. They have two daughters, Ida 
and Carrie. His childhood w.is spent on the farm, 
where he lived until he was eighteen j'ears of age. 
lie then began his business career as a clerk in his 
brother's store and subsequently engaged in busi- 
ness on his own account, which he has since con- 
ducted successfully. His place of business is lo- 
cated on West Eighth Street, Canton. 

At the age of eighteen years, after having 
received a good education, Louis became clerk 
in John R. Miller's grocery store at Canton, in 
which capacity he remained a number of years. He 
afterward purchased a lot near the square on 
Main Street, where he conducted the grocery busi- 
ness successfully for over twenty years. Aside 
from his business associations, he h.as filled a num- 
ber of local positions of responsibility in tlie city 
and township, having served as Township Treas- 
urer for man}' years. lie is a man of fine business 
ability, quiet, cautious, strictly honorable, and 
greatly esteemed in the community for his genial, 
social nature, and .agreeable manner. 

Olympia and her husband, Calvin Clay, have twt) 
cliildren, Edna and Harry. They are living on their 
farm, containing over two hundred acres, near Mas- 
sillon. Flora and her husband, Joseph A. Pierson, 
who is engaged in the lumber business, are living at 
Ilerlin, Ohio. They also own a farm, containing one 
hundred and sixtv-one acres, near New Berlin. 
They have one child living, a son named Raymond 
J. Edward was educated principally in the country 
schools, graduating, however, at the Smitliville 
Academy. He was engaged for many years as 
book-keeper and salesman by his l)rutlK'r Louis, 
who was doing a business in Canton. In 1890, he 
went to California, where he invested in real 
estate, which has proved to be a good investment. 
William, an adopted child, born in October, 
1861, married Mary, daughtei- of Josei)h Uigltr, 
the oldest policeman in Canton. He is now em- 
ployed by Daniieinilicr A- Sons, wholesale dealcis 
at Canton. 

26 



John L. Dumont always took an intelligent in- 
terest in educational matters and served as School 
Director for some time. His political attiliations 
were with the Democratic party. He was a man 
whose sturdy honesty made him trusted and re- 
spected by the entire community. He was in- 
dustrious, and the result of his labors, united with 
the counsel and sympathy of a loving companion, 
placed him among the well-to-do citizens of the 
countv. 



****;^^'5"5"5"5-t 



='-5"5"5"5-'^^ -J-S"?-*! 



L^' Philip and St. James' Church, of Canal 
4\ '\ Fulton, was born in Tiffin, Seneca County, 
' Ohio, on the 21st of June, 1849, and is 
Lhe second child and eldest son in a family of thir- 
teen children. His parents were Anthony and 
Frances (Schab.acher) Kuebler. His father was 
born in Baden, and his mother in Bavaria, (iler- 
niany. In 1832, they emigrated to America and 
went direct to Tiffin, Ohio. The father was a 
shoemaker by trade. The children of the fam- 
ily were as follows: Frances, James F., Joseph, 
Lewis, William, Charles, Alphonsus, Hermann, 
Rose, Anna, .Johnnie, Rose and Emma. 

Father Kuebler attended the schools of Tiffin 
between the ages of five and sixteen 3'ears. Me 
learned the printer's trade, becoming an expert 
type-setter. He was a student in Mt. St. JIary's 
Seminary, of Cincinnati. Ohio, from 18(56 until 
1871, and in Sejjtember of that year went to St. 
Mary's Seminary, of Cleveland, where he remained 
until 1875. On the 4th of July of that year, he 
was ordained, and was jilaced in charge of the St. 
Mary 's and St. Patrick's Catholic Churches in Rock- 
l)Ort, Ohio, there oeing a membersiii]) of forty-two 
families in the former and thirty-five in the latter. 

On the 22d of February. 1891. the Rev. Mr. 
Kuebler was culled U< trike cliarae of the St. 
Philip and Si. James' Clnucli, in Canal Fulton, 
wiiicli lias a membership of ninety families. He 
also lias charge of four missions, located in Barber- 



50« 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



ton, OiTville, Marshallville and Burton City, to 
which belong some seventy families in all. The 
church in Canal Fulton is one of the largest in 
tiie county. The house of worship is a line brick 
edifice and the parsonage is a commodious two- 
story residence, also built of brick. Father Kuebler 
is doing good work in this community and is 
highly esteemed by his people. He is a pleasant, 
.social man of agreeable manners and is well liked 
by all who know him, whether Catholic or Pro- 
testant. 



eHARLES C. UPHAM, attorney-at-law in 
Canton, claims Ohio as his native State, 
his birth having occurred in Columbiana 
County in the year 1854. He belongs to a 
famil_v distinguished for its able and prominent 
lawyers. His father, William Keyes Upham, who 
was for many years a prominent member of the 
Stark County Bar, was a native of Vermont, born 
in Montpeliei- on the 3d of April, 1817. He was 
a graduate at the Burlington (^'a.) University, and 
afterward read law with his father, a United 
States Senator, who died during his second terra 
of oflice. William K. Upham was admitted to 
the Bar at Montpelier, Vt., in the Supreme Court 
of the State, and practiced law there for many 
years. 

In 1844, Mr. Upham was united in marriage 
with Miss Maria E. Weeks, a native of Hardwick, 
Vt., and the daughter of William Weeks. After 
their union, Mr. and Mrs. Upham settled in Mont- 
pelier, where he was a successful and popular 
practitioner. In 1847, he removed with his fam- 
ily to Columbiana County, Ohio, and located at 
New Lisbon, where he conducted a successful 
law practice until 1851). Removing thence to 
Canton, he there carried on a very lucrative 
and successful practice up to the time of his 
death. He died in 1865, in Columbiana County, 
where he had been called to try an important 



suit. He was an intimate friend of Edwin M. 
Stanton, Thomas Corwin, John A. Bingham, and 
other prominent men, and during the war was 
called several times to AVashington to confer with 
Stanton, then Secretary of War. He was a man of 
keen perceptive faculties, correct judgment, and 
a forcible and eloquent speaker. His wife, whose 
womanly qualities are well known, is still living, 
and is highly esteemed by all favored with her 
acquaintance. At present, she is occupying the 
family homestead at No. 55 West Tuscarawas 
Street, and is pleasantly situated. She was born 
in Hardwick, Vt., February 10, 1826, and inherited 
English blood from her father, William Weeks. 
The Uphams are also of English descent and hon- 
orable lineage. 

The subject of tiiis notice is a prominent young 
attornc}^ of Canton, and has already met with 
signal success at the Bar. He is a forcible and 
fluent speaker and a deep reasoner, and has the ca- 
pacit}' for patient investigation and exhaustive 
research, unflagging industry and unswerving in- 
tegrity, to insure a successful and honorable ca- 
reer. His early education, intellectual bent, legal 
training and self-discipline have combined to fit 
him most adniiraljly for the law practice. 



^^ 



— f^^-r 



■#^ 



ON. HENRY S. BELDf:N. Canton has for 
many years been noted as a manufacturing 
place with good distributing facilities, and 
many important industries thrive there 
that find a market in all parts of the Union. 
Among these is the Stoneware Company, of which 
our subject is President. Mr. Belden is a native 
of Canton, and was born July 4, 1840. He 
is a son of Geo. W. and Rachael (McCormish) 
Belden. The former was a native of Connecticut, 
but was reared for the most part in Canandaigua, 
N. Y. He was an attorne3' of high standing. 

Our subject's father removed to Canton in 1830, 
and here continued his law practice, which con- 
sisted principally in settling ditticulties originate 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



500 



ing in the construction of tiie Oliio Canal. He 
practiced in all the courts, and was widely known 
and very popular. He wa.s appointed United 
.Stales District Attoruej', but died before the time 
for taking his seat, his decease occurrina' in 1868, 
when at the age of sixty-five years. 

IIenr\' S, is the only son of the Ik'lden family. 
He passed his boyhood in Canton, and his early 
school days in the village school. Later, he be- 
c.inie a student at Kenyon College, this State, 
after which he entered Wittenberg College, at 
Springfield, Ohio. He finally graduated from the 
Cincinnati University in 1861, and the same year 
was admitted to practice at the Bar in the United 
States Court. He then commenced his practice in 
Canton and continued for six months. The coal 
interests were lieginning to assume importance at 
tliat time, and he embarked in those and mining 
([uite extensively, and continued to be thus inter- 
ested for several years. 

After quitting the coal business, Mr. Belden 
dealt quite extensively in real estate, and at this 
period was elected Mayor of the citj'. About this 
time he turned his attention to general farming, 
and found his health to be greatly benefited 
thereby for several years. In 1888, the Canton 
Stoneware Company was organized through the 
enterprise of our subject and he was made 
the President. He was also organizer of tlie 
Ohio Street Light Compaii}-. He took out thir- 
teen patents and secured a large number of con- 
tracts for lighting cities and towns, at one time 
having forty contracts in different parts of tlie 
State of Oiiio. In this business he had employed 
under him one hundred men. In 1888, he sold out 
his business to tlie Sun \'apor Street Light Com- 
pany. 

Again at lil)erty to employ his fertile brain, Mr. 
lieldeii organized the Canton Brick Company, for 
the manufacture of street paving l^rick. The com- 
[lany produced a superior quality of brick, their 
output being a million a month. He also owns a 
coal and clay bank, from which he manufactures a 
superior quality of fire brick. It is east of the 
tf)wn and on the Cleveland & Canton Railroad, of 
wliicli he is one of tiie Directors. He is \'ice- 
president of the Akron and Canton Stoneware 



Association, and is one of the pioneers in the 
manufacture of the Shale brick, in wliick he has 
been experimenting for twent}' years. 

In 1873, Mr. Belden was married to Miss Frances 
Blake, a daughter of P. II. Blake, of this cit^-. 
The3- have three sons, who are bright vigorous 
youths. In politics, our subject is a stanch Demo- 
crat, and has often stumped his county in the 
interest of his party. He is a prominent Mason, 
being a Knight Templar, and in church relations 
he and his wife worship with the Presbyterians. 
The family residence is an imposing home, located 
at No. 148 South Market Street. 



l.H,^,H I 



Jht.M ICIIEL GILL is a inominent farmer of 
i\ section 12, Lawrence Township, and was 
born in Germanj', December 4, 1837. He 
is the second son in his father's family, 
and was only a year and a half old on coming to 
Stark County with his parents. He has a brother, 
John Gill, of whom a biographical sketch may be 
found in another portion of this volume, and in 
which is developed more fully the family history. 

Our subject's first school days were passed in the 
German school in Lawrence Township. He finished 
his education in the district school, and remained 
at home, assisting his father in the development of 
their farm, until twenty-two years of age. He 
worked liy the month on the farm, getting $15 
for his labor. In coniiection with this, he and his 
brother .lohn purchased a threshing-machine, which 
they ran in Lawrence Township for twelve years, 
making a goodh' sum as the profit of their work. 

Our subject was married in 186il, to Miss Mary 
Wheishamer. She, too, was born in Germany, and 
was about twelve years old when coming with her 
parents to Wayne County, this State. Immediately 
after marriage, our subject and his wife settled 
upon the farm where they now reside. The present 
home of the family was erected in 1882, and is a two- 
story frame dwelling, which was built at a cost of 
about !§ 1,50(1. They have large and capacious 



510 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



barns, which are well built and are well kept up. 
The farm comprises one hundred and Ihirty-tliiee 
acres, most of whicli are under cultivation. 

l\[r. and Mrs. Gill are the parents of eight chil- 
dren, there being seven sons and one daughter. 
Tlieir children are: .Joseph 11., Emma, .Tohn 
C, Charles A., George W., Frank E., Michael, and 
Willis J. All were born on the farm where our 
subject now lives. Mr. Gill devotes his attention 
to general farming, and raises considerable stock. 
He started out in life a poor man, and struggled 
with adversity for some time, but his perseverance 
and energy won the day, as they usually do, and 
he is now in possession of a ple.isant home and a 
suflicient bank account to enal)le him to live com- 
fortably for the balance of his life. Politically, he 
is a Democrat. He and his family are associated 
with the Catholic Cliuicli. He has served on the 
School Board for some time. 



l^^ETER GiRIBBLE. The livery business in 
I Jl) Msssillon is well conducted by our subject, 
•^ who has the greater part of the patronage of 
) \ the public in this branch. He is a native of 
the town, and hence is thoroughly well known to 
all the people, who like him for his genial manners 
and hearty, whole-souled greeting. Our subject's 
natal day was May -1, 1840. He is the son of Henry 
and Matilda (Kcssel) Gribble, both of whom were 
natives of German^', (irandfather Henry Gribble 
brought his family to America and settled at Mas- 
sillon in an early day. Thence he went to Tusca- 
rawas County, where he purchased a farm near 
Ragersville, which he improved and operated un- 
til the lime of his decease, when he was eightj' 
years of age. 

Our subject's father was apprenticed to learn the 
shoemaker's trade in his boyhood, and, after com- 
pleting his term, he removed to Navarre and en- 
gaged in a grocery and hotel business. He lived 
tJKM'c for sixteen years, when he returned to this 



city, and now lives in retirement in a pleasant home 
on Main Street. Our subject's mother died in 1848. 
Of the three children that were born of his father's 
marriage, Peter is the eldest. He spent the period 
from his fifth jearat Navarre, and there received 
a common-school education. He assisted his father 
until twenty years of age, when he came to Mas- 
sillon and was employed as clerk in the old Tre- 
mont House. He spent two years in that employ- 
ment, and then, on the return of his father to the 
cit}', with him opened a livery stable near the 
Tremont House, which he conducted for a short 
time. In 1805, he purchased the corner whereon 
bis barn now stands, and at once began to build. 
In 1878, he bought out his father's interest and 
continued it alone. He has increased the facili- 
ties that the traveling public enjo^'s. and has put 
in coaches, etc. He had the mail contracts for 
conveying the mails to and from the trains, and 
furnished all the 'busses and coaches for parties and 
funerals, having the best equipment in the city. 
In 1885, he disposed of all the coaches, also of the 
contract for carrying mails, and turned his atten- 
tion exclusively to the livery business. He also 
buys and sells horses, dealing extensively for East- 
ern parties. 

Our subject was married Ma)- .3, 187(1, in this 
city, to Miss Laura Buckius, who w.as born in Mas- 
sillon. She is a daughter of Sylvanius Buckius, an 
old Virginian. Mr. and Mrs. Gribble are the pa- 
rents of two children, whose names are Lola M. 
and Nellie .1. 

Our subject is a member of the Free and Ac- 
cepted M.asons, and in politics he is a stanch Re- 
publican. 



RS. SOPHIA M. LEEPER is a venerable 
and esteemed resident of Perry Township, 
i> Stark County. She is a native of the city 
of Marietta, and was born May 13, 1817. 
She is a daughter of Scilomon and Sarah (Ilulchison ) 
Dickev, the former a native of Virginia, and the 




PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 



511 



latter of New England. Her given name, Sophia 
Meigs, was given her in lienor of the wife of Gov. 
Meigs, of Ohio. When tlie diild was two years 
old, she lost her mother, and when about eighteen 
years of age her father also died. 

Our subject received what was in her day con- 
sidered a very good education, and she was ac- 
complished in all the arts and household advan- 
tages thought so necessary at that time in complet- 
ing the education of a woman. July 10, 1837, Miss 
Dickey was imited in marriage to Dr. James L. 
Leeper, a native of old Virginia, and born August 
27,1816. He was a son of William and Ellen 
Leeper, and was reared in his native State, re- 
maining throughout his boyhood days with his 
parents. He came to Carroll County, Ohio, when 
about seventeen years of age. 

Of a bright and shrewd intelligence, Dr. Leeper 
became a man of much intellectual acumen and 
marked culture. On completing his medical 
course, he practiced for a year in Massillon with 
Dr. Abbot, and then moved to Navarre. There 
for thirt}^ years he was known not only as the 
skilled physician to whom all applied in time of 
necessity, but as the valued friend and advisor. 
He was very liberal in his views, and never lost 
sight of the fact that Nature is the fountain-head 
of the most complicated science. 

In his later years. Dr. Dickc}' retired from active 
practice to the farm in Perry Township whereon 
our subject now resides, but even here he was 
in constant requisition in a professional capac- 
ity, lie departed this life January 1, 1888, and 
his death was a cause for mourning on the part of 
the whole community. As a husband, his integ- 
rity and honor were never questioned; as a neigh- 
bor and friend, he was distinguished for kindness 
and philanthropy. He always lived a conscientious 
Christian life, and he and his estimable wife were 
for many years devoted workers in the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. In politics, he wa.s a Repiilili- 
can, and had very clearly drawn opinions in regard 
to temperance, being well known as a local tem- 
perance lecturer. 

Mr. and Mrs. Leeper were the parents of one 
daughter, the joy of whose presence was taken 
awa\', however, in infancy. They reared an 



adopted son, George C, who is now a prominent 
citizen of Perry Township. He married Miss Mary 
Mooke, and they are the parents of four children: 
.James L., George M., Rex and Nellie. 

Our subject has more than passed her three- 
score years and ten, and the host of friends to 
whom she endeared herself through long years of 
thoughtful and unselfish labor in their midst, unite 
in their earnest wish that she may still be spared 
in the mellow years of a pleasant old age as an 
example of what a gracious life matures into. 
She owns a pleasant home, in which there arc one 
hundred and ninety acres of land. 



\1| ACOB GISE is a prominent farmer and pol- 
itician, living on section 33, Jackson Town- 
ship. He was born at Hamburg, Germany, 
November 11, 1832, and is a son of John 
and Charlotte (Baker) Gise, both of whom were 
also natives of Hamburg, Germany. John Gise was 
a tailor by trade, and on coming to Massillon in 
18.")1, continued to carry on the tailoring business 
until the time of his death, which occurred when 
he was sixty-six years of age. The mother died in 
Massillon at the age of eighty-three. 

Our subject was one ofa family of eight children, 
there being seven sons and one daughter. The 
eldest of these died in infancy, the others lived to 
years of manhood and womanhood; they are as 
follows: Peter; Fredrick, a resident of INIassillon; 
our subject, Jacob; Philip and Lewis, both of Mas- 
sillon; Elizabeth and John, deceased. 

Jacob Gise was seventeen years of age when he 
came to Stark County with his brother Peter, in 
1850. He received some schooling in the Old Coun- 
try, and as soon as he located in Stark County be- 
gan to learn the carpenter's trade. He served an ap- 
prenticeship of three years, after which he worked 
with the firm for four years. About 1858, he com- 
menced contracting, and followed that business 
until 1863. During that time he erected many 
buildings in Massillon and other places. 



512 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Our subject purchased the farm where he now 
resides in 1863, and has ever since continued his 
residence here. His first marriage occurred Decem- 
ber 31, 18,54, wlien lie was united to Pliiliphine 
AVahter, like himself a native of Gerniany, but 
reared in Stark County. P'rom that union there 
were five children, tin-ee daughters and two sons. 
They arc as follows: Pliiliphine, who is de- 
ceased; Jacob, a resident of Massillon; Flora, the 
wife of Jacob Gise, of Massillon; Rose, the wife of 
William Filberth, of Massillon, and John, deceased. 
The mother of these children died in 1866. 

In his second marriage, Mr. Gise was united to 
Elizabeth Stockert. Their nuptials were solemn- 
ized Januarj' 30, 1868. She was a native of Bucks 
County, Pa., and was reared in Lehigh County, of 
tlie same State, coming to Stark County, Ohio, 
with her parents when twenty-three years of age. 
The original of this sketch is politically an ardent 
Democrat. He has held a number of local ofHces, 
having been Trustee and Road Supervisor, and 
also School Director. He has been appointed a 
delegate to all the conventions, and is highly es- 
teemed as a political worker, because of his intel- 
ligence in the tenets of his party. He is a member 
of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, belong- 
ing to Tuscarawas Lodge No. 70, of Massillon. In 
church affairs, he and his family are connected 
with St. John's Evangelical Church. 



'5-=^=^>-^^<l 



MELVILLE SCHUCKERS, Assistant Cash- 
ier of the First National Bank of Massil- 
lon, is well known throughout the countj- 
as one of its public-spirited and enterpris- 
ing citizens. He is a native Ohioan, his birth oc- 
curring in Wooster, and is a son of Jacob W. 
Schuckers, who came to that city from Lancaster 
County, Pa. The elder Schuckers was still a single 
man when he made his way to the Buckeye State, 
and was one of the pioneer merchants of AVoosler. 
He was a Whig in his political principles and in 
his religious views, his sympathies were with the 



Episcopal Church. He died at Wooster February' 
14, 1849. The lady who became his wife, July 27, 
1842, bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Kirkpat- 
rick, and was born near Penrith, England. Her 
father. Thomas Kirkpatrick, of Scotch descent, 
was interested in the lead and coal mines there 
•and was a practical miner. In 1832, he came to 
America with his family, consisting of his wife 
and four children, si.f others being born in Ohio. 
He took passage on the old packet-ship called the 
" Pacific," Capt. Waite, and arrived in jNIassillon 
bj' the way of the Ohio Canal. He purchased a 
farm three miles north of the then village, in 
Jackson Township, and engaged in farming. La- 
ter, he discovered valuable coal deposits upon the 
land, and opened the first coal mine in the county 
in 1833, shipping his coal to Cleveland and real- 
izing a handsome competency therefrom. He died 
in 1846. He also was a AVliig in politics and 
an Episcopalian in religion. His wife, formerly 
Miss Fiances Lee, w.as born in Penrith, England, 
and died at Massillon in 1866. 

The original of this notice is the second in t>rder 
of birth of three children, two of whom are living. 
Upon the death of his father, he came to Massillon 
with his mother when three years of age, and re- 
ceived a good practical education in the High 
Schools of that city. After leaving school, he served 
as Deputy Postmaster a short time in 1864, and 
then as clerk ,and book-keeper at the mines of the 
Massillon Coal Company until 1869. Then, he 
went to Cleveland, where he remained one year 
and closed his business with them to accept the 
position of book-keeper and paymaster for the Ful- 
ton Mining Company, of Msissillon. He also filled 
the same position for the Rhodes Coal Company 
and the Willow Bank Coal Company, and then took 
charge of the mines as Superintendent and Mana- 
ger of the Rhodes and Willow Bank Company un- 
til the mines were exhausted. About that time, Mr. 
Schuckers helped to organize the Millport Coal 
Company, of which he is Secretary and Treasurer. 
The mine is located five miles north of the city, 
with tracks from the Cleveland, Lorain & Wheel- 
ing .and the Massillon branch of the J'ittsburgh, 
Ft. Wayne it Chicago Railway. This mine con- 
tains both cannel and regular Massillon coal and 



PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



513 



has two layers, the oannel coal on top, large 
quantities of whicii are shipped by rail to Mich- 
igan, Minnesota and the UaivOtas. The vein is 
one hundred and twenty-one feet from the surface. 
Mr. Schucicers is proprietor of tl\e drug store at 
No. 37 East IMain Street, having purchased tiiesame 
in 1879 from George F. Rudolph. In 1890. he be- 
came Assistant Cashier of the First National l?ank. 
He is a single man and lives with liis mother in a 
pleasant home on Hast Main Street. He is liberal 
and open-lieated and lias a host of warm friends. 
In politics, he is n Republican. 



^F BRrCR CORRELL, Deputy Collector of 
( @/d l| Internal Revenue at Canton, Ohio, is a 
IS native of Oliio, born in Muskingum 
County, near Zanesville, on the 1st of 
Marcli, 1857, and is liie eldest son born to Dan- 
iel A. and Amanda .1. (Boies) Correll, the parents 
both natives of the Buckeye State, the former born 
in Tuscarawas County, and the latter in Mus- 
kingum County. Tlie mother was a daughter of 
James Boies. Daniel A. Correll was a traveling 
salesman from Pittsburgh for many years, and is 
now engaged in the meat business in Canton. He 
is a prosperous business man, and one who takes a 
decided interest in all movements of importance 
in the county. 

The original of this notice passed l\is boyhodd 
in Odon, Ind., whither his parents had moved 
when he was quite young, and there he received a 
thorough training in the common branches. Later, 
he went to Loogootee, Ind., and tiiere lie entered 
the oflice of the Martin County Herald, where 
he stocked his mind witii much and varied 
information. A bright young man attends a 
pretty good school when he works in a country 
newspaper ofHce at the case. In tliis office lie 
learned the printer's trade, and in 1872 he returned 
to Ohio, and at East Palestine took a two-years 
course in the High School. Following this, he em- 



barked in the newspaper business with E. J. Rob- 
erts, and published the Valletf JEc7«o for three years. 
On the 1st of April, 1882, he came to Canton, and 
became foreman for R. A. Cassidyin his job-print- 
ing office. Here he continued until 1889, when he 
w.as appointed Deputy Collector of Internal Rev- 
enue for the F^ighteenth District of Ohio, com- 
posed of Summit, Portage and Stark Counties, and 
this position he holds at the present time, dis- 
charging its duties in a manner reflecting credit 
upon himself and the above-mentioned counties. 
On the loth of May. 1881, Mr. Correll w.as 
united in marriage to Miss Isabel Stobbs, of East 
Palestine, Ohio, but who wjis born in New- 
castle-on-Tyne, England. Three living children 
have blessed this union. Mr. Correll has served 
two terms as a member of the Board of Educa- 
tion, and held other local positions. In politics, 
our subject is a stanch supporter of the platform 
of the Republican party, and takes a veiy active 
part in county and local politics. He was the first 
Counselor of Patrick Henry Council, .lunior Or- 
der of the United American Mechanics. Mr. Cor- 
rell resides at No. 4 Newport Street, Canton, and 
the reputation he enjoys is not only that of a sub- 
stantial and progressive citizen, but of an intelli- 
gent and thoroughly-posted jn.an in all jniblic 
affairs. 



ON. ANTHONY HO WELLS, ex-Treasurer 
and ex-Senator of the Slate of Ohio. The 
qualities that have made Mr. Howells" 
(^j life successful in various and varied fields 
came to him by the right of natural descent — 
fibres of his strong and lusty Welsh ancestry. He 
is distinguished in business and political circles, 
and throughout the State of Ohio his name is 
synonymous with all that is honorable and up- 
right. He combines ])erseverance, economy, 
enterprise and business .sagacity with schol- 
arly culture, and has from an humble sphere in 
life attained to a high iiositimi of wealth, h<)iK)r 
and influence. 



514 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



Our subject wjis born April 6, 1832, in Dow- 

lais, Glamorganshire, South Wales, to Howell 
and Rachel (Evans) llowells, but- little is known 
of his family iiistory on cither side, except that 
both branches of the family were well-to-do and re- 
spected farmers, and had for many ijenerations 
been residents of Llandehia, Carmarthenshire, 
South Wales. The parents moved from the latter 
place to Dowlais prior to his birth. His father, 
Howell Howells, became a miner in early life, and 
afterward a superintendent of mines, in which 
capacity he became noted as a man of ^reat de- 
cision of character and strict integrity. 

While the opportunities of culture and educa- 
tion offered the youths of this generation were 
not open to Anthony Howells, there was nothing 
in ills life or surroundings that was not conducive 
to a vigorous and manly growth, and the early 
opportunities which he received in the Dowlais 
Free School were earnestly improved. After leav- 
ing this institution at the age of twelve years, one 
year was spent in working in the coal mines, 
after which he was sent to a private school for a 
j'ear at Cross Inn, Llandebia, Carmarthenshire — 
his father's early home. Not being satisfied witli 
the limited knowledge thus obtained, and prompted 
by a natural fondness for stud^' and reading, 
throughout life in various ways Mr. Howells has 
continued his studies, and many of his spare mo- 
ments have been given to his books. He has found 
pleasant recreation in devoting his leisure time to 
the improvement of his mind and to acquiring prac- 
tical proficiency in mathematics and book-keeping, 
and a general knowledge of the various sciences. 

At the early age of fourteen years, our subject 
was compelled to begin life's battle for liimself, 
and his first choice of an occupation was that of a 
machinist. As his father was a mine superin- 
tendent, he very naluially drifted into the mines, 
and for nearly four years thereafter pursued his 
labors in the subterranean depths of Wales. He 
had already recognized the fact that the best op- 
portunity for men of his stamp lay in the New 
World, and in May, 1830, he crossed the stormy 
ocean to America, and soon afterward came to 
Youngstown, Ohio, where he resumed his former 
occupation of coal mining in the mines of David 



Tod, afterward Governor of Ohio. In the spring 
of 1853, he left for the mines of California, but in 
the spring of the following year returned to 
Youngstown and resumed work in the coal mines 
until the fall of 185o. 

By this time, our subject had become tired of 
being "a hewer of wood and drawer of water," 
and, as he had by economy saved some money, 
he decided to begin business on his own responsi- 
bility in Youngstown, and accordingly opened a 
grocery and provision house. This enterprise 
proved fairly prosperous, but having engaged in 
the l)usiness of coal mining in Ducpioin, III., in 
I8(>r), he made that place his home for one year. 
After disposing of his interest in these mines, he 
once more returned to Y'oungstown, where he 
again commenced business as a merchant, and 
this received his attention until his retirement 
in April, 1869. In the latter part of the same 
year, he was offered an interest, together with the 
management of two coal mines, in Massillon Dis- 
trict, which offer was accepted, and he removed 
to this pl.ace in 1870, where his home has since 
been. 

Mr. Howells was engaged in the iron business in 
addition to his coal mines for a short time, but 
this business proved disastrous to him during the 
panic of 1873. Notwithstanding this, his opera- 
tions have been uniformly successful, and he has 
opened up nine coal mines, three of which are 
now in successful operation, owned by the well- 
known corporation, the Howells Coal Company, 
which employs from five to six hundred men, Mr. 
Howells being its President and Manager. He has 
perfect mastery of detail, and, being an experi- 
enced miner and coal operator, he is, with reason, 
considered one of the highest authorities on the 
coal-mining industry in the State. Although lib- 
eral in his political views, he is a believer in the 
Democracy of .lefferson, and in the largest liberty 
to the individual compatible with social and civil 
order. In 186(5, he became a candidate for County 
Tretisurer of Mahoning County, and two years 
later was a candidate for State Senator in the 
Trumbuli and Mahoning Districts, but this dis- 
trict being largely Republican, he was defeated 
both times, although in each case he ran ahead of 



PORTRAIT AND BIOORAFHICAL RECORD. 



5 IT) 



his ticket. In 1875, he became a candidate for 
State Treasurer, but failed to secure the nomina- 
tion; two years later, he received the nomination 
and was elected, leading ail the candidates except 
the Hon. R. M. Bishop, who was elected Gov- 
ornor. He enjoys the respect and confidence of 
his party, and his record as State Treasurer is 
honorable in every respect. In 1879, he was unan- 
imously nominated by his party for the same po- 
sition, with Gen. Thomas Ewing heading the ticket 
for Governor, but at the polls the entire ticket 
was defeated. 

Our subject was api)ointed Postmaster of Mas- 
sillon in May, 1886, but, owing to the fact that 
his private affairs required the most of his time 
and attention, he resigned in April, 1888. Tlie 
same year, lie was nominated Presidential Elector 
in the State Democratic Convention, but the ticket 
w.as defeated. At the Stark-Carroll Senatorial 
Convention held at Carrolltoii in September, 
1889, Mr. Ilowells was nominated by acclamation, 
and the following November was elected Senator 
by a large majority, although the district is largely 
Republican. When the Senate was organized in 
January, 1890, although on a sick bed at home, 
he was appointed on some of the most important 
and responsible committees: Chairman of the 
Committees on Benevolent Institutions, Mines 
and Mining, Public Expenditures, and second 
on the Committee on Fin.anee. 

At the Senatorial Convention held in Canton, 
Ohio, in September, 1891, Mr. Ho wells was once 
more nominated by acclam.ation, but though he 
had a majority in Stark County, he was defeated 
in the district with the balance of the ticket. He 
holds a number of prominent and honorary posi- 
tions in the community and is now serving his 
second term as President of the Ohio Institute of 
Mining Engineers, and second term as President 
of the Massillon Board of Trade. 

In personal appearance, Mr. Howells is below 
medium height, is firmly built and has a very 
upright carriage. His character in public and 
private life is above reproach, .and being a clear 
thinker and brilliant reasoner, still greater things 
may be expected of him in the enlarged opportu- 
nities and mature wisdom of the future. He 



has identified himself with the Baptist Church, 
although not a member of that denomination, but 
has always been liberal in his views and contribu- 
tions to other churches. In 1887, he became an 
Odd Fellow, in 1878 a Knight of Pythias, and 
also a member of the AV'elsh Ivorite Lodge, of 
Youngstown, Ohio. A warm patron of national 
institutions, he is interested in all matters which 
tend to the advancement of his own country. In 
1854, his marriage with Miss Elizabeth .lames was 
celebrated, and by her he is the father of three 
sons and one daughter, who, with their parents, 
form a happy social circle and dis|)ense a refined 
and liberal hospitality at their pleasant luune. 



\f]AMES SUTEK, a member of the firm of 
I Warthorst Ar Co., manuf.acturers of griiid- 
! stones, block and building stone, dried .sand 

'JJ for glass and steel manufactories, pressed 
and paving brick, etc.. and proprietor of the Mas- 
sillon Stone <^uarry, is a native of Switzerland, 
born on Beautiful Lake, on the 27th of April, 182.'). 
His father, .laeob .1. Suter, was also a native of that 
country, and followed the business of a liveryman, 
furnishing horses for stage coaches, etc., and-was 
very successful in this. He died there when sev- 
enty-eight years of age. This f.amilj- was a very 
old and prominent one and was formerly from 
Italy. The father was a member of the Reformed 
Church. The mother of our subject, whose maiden 
name was Esther I.,ushcr, was born in Lrdorf, Switz- 
erland, and died when sixty-eight years of age. Her 
father was a farmer. Eight children were born to 
this worthy couple, three of whom reached mature 
years and are now living, viz.; Louisa, Mrs. Seliil]!- 
lin, resides in Switzerland; James (our subject) 
and Annie L., Mis. Pietzcker, who reside in Can- 
ton, Ohio. 

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was 
reared in his native country, received good educa- 
tional advantages, stud led (ierman.and when four- 
teen years of age studied French in a boarding- 



r)ifi 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



school for fifteen months. After this lie learned 
tinok-keeping in a cotton factory at Walzenhausen 
on the Hliine, and remained there for five years. 
From there he went to another factory in Switzer- 
land and was boolt-kceper in tlie same for two years. 
In 1K48, lie decided tliat a better opening was af- 
forded liim in the United Stales and lie left Havre 
de Orace, France, on the vessel "Hector" the same 
year. After forty-three days' ocean voyage, he 
reached New York City, bnt went from there to 
Albany, thence to Buffalo, and from there to Cleve- 
land. He then came by canal to Massillon, although 
he had intended settling in Illinois. 

After locating in this city, he first engaged as a 
clerk for Hiram 11. AVellman in a dry-goods store, 
remaining there for fifteen months, and then 
entered the quarry at this place. He began at the 
bottom, with i)ick and shovel, but his true worth 
soon became apparent and he was made foreman. 
In 18()4, he leased the (juarry and operated it alone 
for eighteen months. In 1867, he started the 
Waithorst, Suter ii Everhard Co. This con- 
tinued under that title until 1882, when it became 
Warthorst <k Co., and holds that title now. When 
our subject started in business, there was no rail- 
road connection and they merely manufactured 
building stone. Now it is different. The old 
quarry of twenty-six acres has been increased to 
sixty-nine acres and a railroad has been built to the 
main track of the Ft. Wayne Railroad, as well as 
other railroads. This firm manufacture brick, turn- 
ing out twenty-two thousand per day, and the sand 
mill has a capacity of one hundred and fifty tons a 
day. A sixty-five horse power engine operates this 
establishment and all the blasting is done by elec- 
tricity. From <me hundred and fifty to two hun- 
dred men are employed and their stone is shipped 
to all parts of the United States. This is the 
largest (piarry in Stark County. Mr. Suter super- 
intends till' (piarry and is the oldest member of the 
firm. 

Our subject was first married in Canton, in 1861, 
to Miss Augusta Pietzcker, a native of Berlin, Prus- 
sia. She died, leaving one child, Anna, who is at 
home. Mr. Suter's second union occurred in New 
York City, in 1878, when he married Miss Minnie 
Pietzcker, a native also of Berlin, Germany, and a 



sister of his first wife. She died in 1880. Our sub- 
ject's third union was with Mrs. Minnie Breckel, a 
native of Wurtemberg, (iermany, wiio had five chil- 
dren bj' her first marriage. Mr. Suter was in the City 
Council from the Third Ward for two years, and 
was President of the same for one year. He is a 
member of St. .lohn's F^vangelical Church and a 
Trustee of the same. He built the church stone 
work. In i)olitics, he has always been a stanch 
Republican. 



FiSCIILIMAN, a retired farmer, residing 
with his son-in-law, J. R. Lawrence, on sec- 
tion 17, Lawrence Township, is one of the 
substantial, enterprising citizens of Stark County, 
and his career has been both honorable and up- 
right. In any worthy history of Stark County an 
outline of his life should not fail to be given. He 
inherits Swiss blood from the paternal side of the 
house, for his grandfatlier, Abraham Eschliman, was 
a native of that country and emigrated to Amer- 
ica when a young man. He located in Lancaster 
County, Pa., and was there mariied to a Miss 
Oreabile. They reared six daughters and six sons. 
The father of our subject, Abraham F^schliman, 
jr., was born in Lancaster, Pa., on the 14th of Feb- 
ruary, 1800, and was the third in order of birtii of 
the above-mentioned children. He attained his 
majority in his native county and was there mar- 
ried to Miss Elizabeth Ilorst, who was also born in 
Lancaster County. After marriage they located 
in the .same county and there made their home 
until 1837, when they came direct to Stark County. 
Ohio, attracted by the fertile soil, and settled on 
section .32, Lawrence Township. Their family 
consisted of six sons and four daughters, all born 
in Lancaster County, Pa., and eight of whom mar- 
ried and reared families. 

In Lancaster County, Pa., our suliject was born, 
February 17, 1823, the eldest son in the family. 
When fourteen years of age he came to the Buck- 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



oi; 



eye State. His first educational advantages were 
received in liis native State and after reaching 
Stark County lie was instructed in the primitive 
lug schoolhouse of pioneer days, where "the three 
R's'" were the only branches taught. In 1843, when 
twenty years of age, he was married to Miss Mary 
(iardner, a native of Cumberland County, Pa., 
liurii nc;ir Carlisle, May 9, 1821. She was an ear- 
nest ( lirislian woman and died on the "iDth of July, 
IS'.M). l-"(iur eliildn'ii l)U'sscd tills union, two 
daughters and two sons, duiy one, Klizalieth, now 
living. Tills daughter married .1. \{. Lawrence, 
of Lawrence Township, this county. 

After his marriage Mr. Eschllinan located on 
section 21, and still owns the farm tliere. At that 
time very few improvements had been made and 
he at once commenced developing the property, 
soon becoming the owner of a line tract of one hun- 
dred and seventy acres. A fine frame dwelling 
and substantial outbuildings were erected as time 
passed, and other improvements were made until 
the farm compared favorably witli any in the 
county. .\11 this was accom])llshed by the industry 
and perseverance of Mr. Eschliman and his most 
estimable wife. Our subject also owns thirt^'-one 
acres on section 28. He has been unusually success- 
ful and is well liked by all who have made his ac- 
quaintance. In politics, he is in symiiathy with 
the Kepublican party. For twenty years he has been 
interested in settling estates and has been ap- 
pointed guardian many times. He is a member of 
the Reformed Church of Canal Fulton, was Deacon 
many years, and Is now an Elder and Trustee. He 
is a liberal contributor to tlie ehurcli and one of Its 
prominent members. 



•f^^-r— ^ 



-^^ 



\fACOR IIENRICH. It Is always Interest- 
ing to note the career of those who have 
^^ I , emigrated from t'oreign lands for the pur- 
^5^/ pose of establishing homes in tiie Tnited 
States, and to trace liie steps by which they have 
exchangeil i)overly for an honorable independence. 



In the life of Mr. Ilenrich, there is much to inter- 
est and instruct. From his youth he hasalw.ays been 
an active, frank and honest man in his speech, and 
as such has commanded the liighest respect of all 
who know him. He li.as every convenience tor 
tilling the soil upon section 20, Perry Townsiiip, 
where he makes his home, and Is prospering ex- 
ceedingly well, as he deserves. 

Our subject, who Is the son of .lacob ;uid Mar- 
garet Henrich, was born in Bavaria, Germany. Jan- 
uary 8, 182!l. In 1846, he emigrated to the New 
M'orld, taking passage at Havre on a sailing-vessel, 
and thirty-three days later landed in New York 
City. Thence he came directly to this county, 
and at Canton learned the tiade of a boot and 
shoe-maker with ills brother, Joseph Henrich. Re- 
maining with the latter for about eighteen months, 
our subject then came to Massillon and worked at 
his trade for one j'car, receiving for his services 
IT) per month and board. 

Mr. Ilenrich, having determined to make his fu- 
ture home in America, after a residence here of 
three years, returned to the Fatherland aiyl in- 
duced the remainder of thefamilj- to try their foi- 
tunes in the United States. He continued to work 
at his trade of boot and shoe-maker, both with 
partners and alone, for many years, and was more 
than ordinarily successful in his undertaking. He 
was given a good education in his native tongue, 
and after coming to this country gained a fair 
knowledge of the Elnglish language. 

He of whom we write and Miss Catherine E. 
Kessel, also a native of Germany, were united in 
marriage in 1851, and to them has been granted 
a family of ten children, four of whom are liv- 
ing, namely: Mary, JNIrs. Anthony Kegler; George 
"W., who married Elizabeth, daughter of Nich- 
olas Siblla; Anna, the wife of Charles V. Ham- 
mersmith; and Flora. In the spring of 1884, Mr. 
Ilenrich removed to his pleasant estate, which 
comprises two iiundrcd and four acres of land be- 
longing to him and his son-in-law, Anthony Keg- 
ler, and which is supplied with all the modern .ac- 
cessories, including frame buildings and improved 
machinery; its fields arc well tilled, and the stock 
which he raises is of the highest grade. In addi- 
tion to carrying on the operations of his farm, our 



518 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



subject has a half-interest in a dairy, and has a 
milk route in Massillon. 

He is a Democrat in politics, and in religious 
matters is a Tuember of the Catholic Ciiurch. By 
nature, he is genial, and iiis success in life is all 
due to his own efforts and his prosperity is richly 
merited. VVitli a natural talent for music, he has 
been a member of a band since he was twenty-five, 
and has sung in St. Mary's Church since he was 
twenty years of age, in addition to which he has 
been a music-teacher. 

Since the above was written, Mr. Ilenrich has 
sold his farm, and an insane asylum will be erected 
thereon in the near future. 



♦^^^i@^11^^^- 



■iflOHN H. WERNP:R. In a short biograph- 
ic.'il sketcii in the Cleveland World, the fol- 
lowing mention is made of our subject: 
_^J "No man has contributed more largely than 
•lohn H. Werner to the mercantile and industrial 
prosperity of Canton. A business man of forty, 
well-to-do, blessed witli a fine constitution and 
executive abilit}', in addition to building up a pros- 
perous business, he lias devoted a large portion of 
his twenty years' residence in Canton to materially 
assisting in the advancement of the city's inter- 
ests. ' ' 

Our subject was born in Stark County, May 11, 
1851. His parents were Henry and Elizabeth 
(Freed) Werner. The former, who was born in 
1800, was a native of Pennsylvania and removed 
to Stark County in 1812, where he is still living. 
He has been a contractor and builder and an im- 
portant factor in the early history of the county, 
having built many of the large frame houses and 
barns throughout the country. He now makes his 
home at Louisville, with one of bis daughters, 
]\h'S. David AVeirick. 

Canton has room for more men like Air. ,1. H. 
Werner. He has ever been alive to the city's in- 
terests, and is an energetic, able, enterprising and 
alert citizen. His efforts to secure industries 



which will benefit the entire community are com- 
mended on all sides. He is to-day one of the fore- 
most business men of Canton, and the success of 
his latest venture is assured in advance. Too 
much cannot be said by way of commendation of 
Mr. Werner's actions in securing substantial con- 
cerns for our city. 

Mrs. Elizabeth AVeriier died when our subject 
was eleven years old. The child was the fourth in 
order of birth of a family numbering six children. 
He passed his boyhood on the farm and there at- 
tended school, remaining there until sixteen years 
of age, when he came to Canton and learned the 
painter's and decorator's trade. He has for 
many years carried on a store, having a complete 
stock of carpets, window shades, draperies, oil 
cloths, linoleum, paints, glass, wall-paper, and 
house decorating goods. He was also the first to 
introduce ceiling papering and decorating in Can- 
ton, and is now doing the largest business in his 
line. He also einplo3's a large force of painters 
.and does contracting on a large scale. He laid out 
what is known as the Crystal Park Addition, a 
tract comprising six hundred and nine lots in the 
northeastern part of the city of Canton, all of 
which are beautiful and desirable residence sites. 
It adjoins the Cook Public Park and is connected 
with the Electric Street Railway Line. 

Mr. Werner was married, in 1870, to Miss Maria 
Trumj), who was born and brought up in Stark 
County, a daughter of John J. Trump, who was one 
of the early settlers in this localit.y. They have 
one son, who is named Edward W. In 1882, the 
original of this sketch was elected a member of the 
City Council, representing the Third Ward, and 
has been a leading member of the Board of Trade 
for many years. He has been unusually active in 
securing new industries in the past few years, and 
his efficiency in this line is demonstrated in the 
securing single-handed of the Cutter Manufac- 
turing Works of Allegheny, Pa., which is now 
known .as the Canton Malleable Iron (-'oinpany. 
over the efforts of the Boards of Trade of two 
hundred and sixty-three towns. Another indus- 
try that has proved both profitable and prosperous 
was secured by the untiring efforts of our subject 
and located at Crystal Park, it is known as tbc 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



519 



National Wringer Manufacturing Comiiany, of 
which ]Mr. Werner is now President. The com- 
))any is now occupying the liandsome new fac- 
tory which they liavt; recently erected in Crys- 
tal Park, and is one of tlie most prosperous 
industries now operating in the city. Mi: Wer- 
ner has also secured the Mueser A' Co. [)iano 
factc»ry, of New York, through his untiring efforts. 
They have also located in Crystal Park. 

The original of this sketch built one of the fin- 
est business blocks in the city. It is a four-story 
brick edifice, with all the improvements that sci- 
ence has suggested to the builders of to-day. It 
was Mr. Werner who donated a free site and other 
necessary means for securing the Malleable Iron 
Company, and in numerous other ways has this 
gentleman greatly added to the growth and im- 
portance of this municipality. He has also se- 
cured for Canton the Cleveland Axle Manufac- 
turing Comi)any, of Cleveland, Ohio, and another 
concern, the Automatic Fountain Company, of 
Cleveland, Ohio, which is now operating in Crys- 
tal Park, and these add wdiiderfully to the growth 
of the citv. 



^ILLIAM (;. .MVKUS is a pnnninciit Iriuycr 
and resident of Canal Fulton. He was 
born in Pickaway Townshi)j, Wayne 
County, Ohio, .Tune 17, 1820, and is a son of Peter 
and Sarah (Miller) Myers, the former a native of 
Rensselaer ('ounty, N. Y., the latter of Pennsyl- 
vania. Hoth parents came to Ohio with llicii re- 
spective families when young. 

Our subject's father settled as a young man in 
Canton; he afterward went to Wayne County and 
developed a faiin, upon wliich he spent the re- 
mainder of his life. His father, William Myers, 
who was born in New York, was of Dutch de- 
scent. Our sul)ject's maternal grandsire was 
(ieorgi- Miller, n mitive of I'cnrisylwinia, who 
came to the Duckeyc .State in 1812, and located ou 



a farm between Canton and Massillon, remain- 
ing there until his death. He was of German 
descent. Our subject's parents were married in 
Stark County. Three sons were given to their care 
and training; of these, two died in infancy, jind our 
subject is second in order of birth. Mr. Myers' 
first school days were passed in his native place. 
His father's death occurring when the boy was 
three years old, he made his home with his grand- 
parents until sixteen years of age. He worked by 
the month on the farm, and when sixteen was 
bound out to learn the carpenter's trade, working 
under Nathan Taylor. He was with him for five 
years, and was then employed at the trade which 
he had mastered, building barns, houses, etc., 
throughout the county. He also taught school 
during certain parts of the year. November 20, 
18t;5, our subject was married to Sarah . I. Hard- 
grove, a native of Laurel Township, this county, 
and born October 8, 1822. She received her edu- 
cation in the common schools in the vicinity of 
her home. 

Immediately after marriage, Mr. Myers settled 
upon his father's farm, which had been secured 
from the (Government in 1816. He remained on 
that farm for thirty years, and in that time taught 
nine terms of school. Ambitious to learn law, he 
commenced to read in 18,55, and while carrying on 
his farm he practiced at the .same time. In 1870, 
our subject joined with his sons in purchasing a 
hardware store in Canal Fulton, in which the sous 
arc now engaged. Mr. Myers moved to the town 
in 1871, and gave his attention to the business for 
ten years. At the same time he was practicing 
law, and was very successful in the same. 

Mr. and Mrs. Myers are the parents of four sons 
and two daughters, whose names in the order of 
their birth are given as follows: Mary M. (de- 
ceased), .lolin W., Ro.sa J., AVilliam N., (ieorge W., 
and Richard F. Mr. Myers has been an auctioneer 
for forty years, his work in this line extending 
over a radius of territory of twenty miles. He is 
a strong Rei)ublican, with an admiration for every 
feature of that i)arty. During the war, he was 
actively intci'ested in the Pnderground Railway, 
and made some effective speeches in the interest of 
the Republican party. 



520 



PORTRAIT AxND BlOGRAnilCAL RECORD. 



He enlisted in the Civil War in 1862, joining 
Company- O, One Hundred and Twentieth Regi- 
ment of the Ohio Infautiy, and he was at once 
commissioned Captain. He served for five months 
and then resigned because of disahilit}'. He is a 
member of the Orand Army of tlio Repuljlic, also 
a member of the Patrons of Husbandry' at Canal 
Fulton, in which he holds ofHce. Mr. Myers owns 
one hundred and sixty acres of good land in 
Wayne County, and the old homestead where he 
was born. His wife is as mucli interested in 
woman '.s suffrage as her husband in universal suf- 
frage. 






\I^ROF. EDMUND A. JON'ES, Superintendent 
I Jl) of the Massillon Public Schools. One of the 
1 -f^ most striking features in the history of the 
li, development of Western communities is the 
attention tliey Iiave given to educational matters, 
and wherever a considerable settlement has been 
formed, the village school has been the first object 
taken under consideration by the community. 
This was the case in the history of Massillon, 
which has long been justly noted for tlie superi- 
ority of her educators and educational institutions. 
In Prof. Jones are strikingly' exemplified those 
characteristics and principles which conduce to the 
occupation of positions demanding the display of 
great mental abilities. He is a member of the 
Ohio State Board of School Examiners, and was 
President of that bod}- in 1890. He was first ap- 
pointed by Dr. Eli T. Taplin to fill the une.vpired 
term of Hon. E. E. White, and was re-appointed to 
the position by Dr. .lohn Hancock for a term of 
five years. He is Secretar}- of the Board of Trus- 
tees of the Charity Rotch School, and President of 
the Stark County Soldiers' Relief Commission. 

The Professor was born in Rockville, Mass., Feb- 
ruary 1 1, 1842. His father, Elisha Adams Jones, and 
his grandfather, Elisha Adams Jones, were also lioru 
in that vicinity. The latter was a farmer and 
school teacher, and was Captain in the Jlassachu- 
setts militia. The great-grandfatiier, Simpson Jones, 



was a farmer b^' occupation, and was a native of 
Medway, Mass. In addition to tilling the soil, 
Elisha Jones, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was engaged in teacliing the "young idea" 
in the vicinity of Rockville. He was born in 
1815, and politically, was a Freesoiler and Repub- 
lican. His wife, Rhoda (Ellis) Jones, was born in 
Medway, of an old and prominent familj- of that 
place. She was educated in the old Bradford 
Academy, and was a lady of more than ordinary 
intelligence and culture. Slie was called from life 
in 1873. Her father, Moses Ellis, was a native of 
the Bay State, where his attention was given to 
tilling the soil. Edmund Jones was fitted for col- 
lege in Mt. Ilollis Academy, and at the age of 
eighteen years he entered Amherst College, Mass., 
which noted institution he attended two years. In 
the fall of 1862, he dropped his books and became 
a votary of Mars, and witiiout giving a thought 
to the dark outlook in the future, he enlisted in 
Company B, Forty-second Massachusetts Regi- 
ment, and was sent to New Orleans to join Banks' 
exjjedition, the first battle in which he participated 
being Bayou La Fourche, in June, 1863. He was 
wounded in the left shoulder, and although he 
was compelled to be on duty for three days there- 
after, he was at last obliged by the surgeon's 
orders to go to New Orleans and have his wound 
dressed. He held tlie rank of Fifth Sergeant and 
by his Lieutenant-Colonel was recommended for 
promotion on account of meritoiious service. In 
July, 1863, he was mustered out of the service at 
Boston, and returned to college, from which he was 
graduated in 1865 with the degree of A. B.,the de- 
gree of A. M. being conferred upon him in 1868. He 
was President of the Sophomore Class of '64, and 
held the same position with the Senior Class of 
'65. Immediately after finishing his education, he 
went to Lake Forest, 111., as Professor of Latin and 
Gymnastics. At the close of the first year, he was 
made Associate Principal, and so continued until 
the fourth .year, when he became Principal of the 
academy. In October, 1861(, he came to Massillon 
as Superintendent of the city schools, but resigned 
at the end of four years, and was elected to the 
same position in the Marietta Schools, not having 
seen a member of the Board of Education. 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



521 



His salaiy at this place was $2,000 per year, and 
after acceptabl.v filling it for two years, he re- 
turned to JMassillon in 1875, and has been here 
ever since. For ten or twelve years, he was a 
member of the Board of County School Examin- 
ers, and for a number of years was its President. 
In 1889, he was elected Principal of the West 
High School of Cleveland, .it an adv.aneed salary, 
but the School Board of Massillon at once raised 
his salar3' to an equivalent sum and he remained 
here. He exhibits the characteristics which have 
rendered him distinguished throughout his career, 
and which have made his life a succession of suc- 
cesses. He was one of the organizers of the Board 
of Trade, and has served in the capacity oC Secre- 
tary, it is needless to say with credit. In De- 
cember, 1873, he was married to Flora Richards, a 
native of Massillon, and a daughter of Warren 
Richards. She was educated in the schools of her 
native town, and for some time followed the occu- 
l)ation of teaching. They h.ave one child, AVaUer 
E., who was born March 14, 1883. Superintend- 
ent Jones is a member of the (Trand Army, and 
was a delegate to the National Encampment at 
Boston in Julv, 1890. He is Piesident of the 
Board of Trustees of the Presbyterian Church, and 
has been Superiuteudent of the Sunday-school for 
man}' yeai-s. Politically, he is a strong Republi- 
can. He helped to organize the Ohio Teachers' 
Reading Circle in 1883, and lias been Correspond- 
ing Secretary and Treasurer of the same for the 
past eight years. In this capacity he has become 
well and prominently known throughout the State. 
He is a member of the Ohio Teachers' Association, 
and in July, 1892, was elected President of that 
body. As institute instructor and lecturer, he has 
visited many counties in Ohio, and every year he 
receives many more invitations than he can acccjit. 



jl^p' J. KELLER. Mas,sillon has its full (piota 
Ip^); of vigorous, enterprising, thorough-going 
/l>j business men, whose popularity is b.ased 

upon both their social qualities and their well- 
known integrity and business activity. None 



among them is better liked by those who have 
dealings with him than the young and prosperous 
business man, F. J. Keller. He was born in Law- 
rence Township, one mile north of Massillon, on 
the 23d of September, 1861, and is of German de- 
scent, his father, Rheinhart Keller, being a native 
of that country. The elder Mr. Keller came to 
America at an early period, and followed the trade 
of a coal miner. Some years after residing in the 
Buckeye State, he became Superintendent, and was 
afterward a member of the firm of Warwick it 
Keller coal miners of this county. He owns an in- 
terest in the Upper Pegron Run Coal Mine, War- 
wick & Co., proprietors, and is an active business 
man. He married Miss Mary Oster, also of Ger- 
many, and ten children were born to them, eight 
of whom grew to mature years, and are now liv- 
ing. 

The third in order of birth of these children, F. 
J. Keller, attended the parochial school, and fin- 
ished the course when thirteen years of age. Af- 
ter this, he worked at the coal mines as a driver, 
but soon entered the office as Shipping Clerk for the 
Rhodes Coal Company, of Cleveland. Fivcj'ears 
later, he came to Massillon, Ohio, and in Septem- 
ber, 1881, embarked in the grocer^' business under 
the firm name of Sonnholler & Keller. This he 
continued at No. 2 East Main Street until the 1st 
of September, 1889, when the firm sold out, and 
our subject branched out in the coal, powder and 
oil business. In January, 1891, he became agent 
for the Wells-Fargo Elxpress Company, and carried 
this on in connection with his other enterprises. 
He is at present engaged in the retail coal busi- 
ness, and carries all kinds of powder and dynamite, 
i and lubricating oil. 

In August, 1891. Mr. Keller sold his stcck to 
C. L. Iloltcr, and since then he has been em- 
ployed with his father in the Upper Pegron 
Run as shipping clerk of the mines. Mr. Keller 
has a fast}- and attractive home at No. 107 Pros- 
pect Street, and this is presided over with much 
ease bj' his worthy and estimable wife, who was 
formerly Miss Mary C. Whitman, whom he mar- 
ried in Doylestown, Ohio, where her birth oc- 
curred. Her fallier, Potei- AVIiitnian, was a prom- 
inent fanner liierc. Four children have been given 



522 



PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPIUCAL RECORD. 



to our subject and his wife, viz: Eflfa, William, 
Rlieiuliart and Viola. 

From 1884 to 1886, Mr. Keller was Collector of 
Tolls on the Ohio Canal at the port of Massillon. He 
is a member of the Hoard of Trade and is classed 
among tiie thorough -going, progressive business 
men of this section. Not only is he thus regarded, 
but he is universally conceded to be one of the 
most esteemed citizens. Altliough young in j-ears, 
he is old in business experience, and his judgment 
and ideas are sound and good. He is a memlier 
of tlie Catholic Church, and in politics is an 
ardent Democrat, having been a delegate to county 
conventions. 



'^( OHN YUTZEY. Among tliose who are cul- 
tivating a portion of the soil of Stark 
County with success and securing thereby 
^^^ many comforts and enjoyments, is the gen- 
tleman above named. He is a native of this 
county, born March 28, 1822. George Yutzey, 
his father, was a native of Germany, and made the 
ocean voyage to America with his parents when a 
lad of nine j'ears, tbe journey hither occupying 
seventy-five days. He located with his parents in 
Somerset County, Pa., where they remained for a 
time, and later, emigrating to this county, were 
classed among the early settlers of Canton Town- 
ship. Here the grandfather entered Government 
land, where he made his home until his decease. 

The father of our subject in 1820 located in 
this township, and, building a log cabin in the 
woods, here made his home and employed his time 
in clearing and developing a good farm. All the 
marketing of the pioneers was done at Cleveland, 
and on the return trip they would bring back salt 
and leather. He was a hard-working man, and at 
his death, which occurred when in his fifty-fifth 
yeai', the elder Mr. Yutzey left two finely culti- 
vated and well-ordered farms, of one hundred 
and sixty acres each, which were supplied with 
everything to operate them in the best possible 
manner. 



The maiden name of our subject's mother 
was Catherine Gcrber, a native of Somerset 
County, Pa., She reared a family of seven children , 
namel}-: Annie, John, Lizzie, David, Martha, Eve, 
and Christian, the latter two of whom were born 
of her union with Mr. Gerber, her first husband. 
She was a member of the Mennonite Church and 
died when seventy-eight j'ears of age. The father 
of our subject acted .as a local preacher of that 
denomination while residing liere, and was instru- 
mental in the organization of the church in this 
locality. He was in sympathy with the AYhig 
party. The maternal grandfather of our subject. 
Christian Gerber, was a native of Pennsylvania 
and had the honor of being one of the first to set- 
tle in Canton Township, this county, wliei-e he en- 
tered land from the Government. The country 
was entirely undeveloped in that day, and animals 
were very numerous and often troublesome. On 
one occasion the grandfather was attacked by a 
bear, and carried the scars through life. 

Mr. Yutzey, of this sketch, received a fair edu- 
cation in the old log schoolhouse with slab benches 
and puncheon floor, and whicli was conducted on 
thu rate-bill system. He received a fine training 
on the old homestead in all tliat makes a skillful, 
practical fanner, so that when he started out in 
life on his own account he was well equipped for 
work. He aided his father in the development of 
the farm as soon as old enough to be of service, 
and when twenty-two years of age began life on 
his own account. 

The ladj' to whom our subject was married in 
1844 was Miss Hannah Flickinger, a native of 
Tuscarawas Count}-, this State. Of their family 
of five children, three are living: Daniel, Jacob 
and Amos. The wife and mother departed this 
life in 1887, greatly mourned by a large circle of 
friends and acquaintances. After his marriage Mr. 
Yutzey located on a portion of the old home farm, 
and at the same time worked at the carpenter's 
trade, being thus engaged for a period of twenty- 
two years. On the death of his father, his share of 
the iiome farm amounted to fifty-nine acres, to 
which he has since added by purchase until he has 
a magnificent estate of two hundred and ten acres, 
which is divided into three farms, upon which, froni 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



523 



year to year, he lias placed the various moclern im- 
provements which indicate tiie prosperity of the 
owner. He devotes his time and attention to 
mixed farming, and besides raising the cereals 
makes a specialty of breeding a fine grade of sheep, 
raising animals of both fine and coarse wool. 

Mr. Yutzey, while prosecuting his trade of car- 
penter, has erected manj' of the best residences in 
this vicinity, and has a wide acquaintance 
throughout the county who recognize his superior 
workmanship in this line, and when any special 
work is on hand he is called upon. The marriage 
of our subject to Miss Hannah Lantz was solem- 
nized in 1889; she was born in Holmes County, 
in 1835. They are both members of the Ger- 
man Baptist Church, in which denomination Sir. 
Yutzey has been a Deacon for the past twenty- 
live j-ears. In politics, he alwaj's casts a straight 
Hepublican vote, and is greaty interested in the 
progress of his party in this vicinity. He is one 
of the few old settlers now living who witnessed 
almost the'entire growth of Stark County, and it 
may well be his pride that he has done what he 
could to advance its agricultural interests. 



]^+^[ 



' AMES L. LEEPER, M. D., formerly a phy- 
sician of marked talent and ability, whose 
^^, , life was brought to a close .January 1, 1888, 
V^f/ resided in Perry Township and was brought 
into close and kindly relations with his pa- 
tients throughout Stark County. His warm heart 
and generous sympathies added to the good 
feeling inspired bj- liis professional culture and 
practical skill and he hnd a large following and 
many sincere friends. 

Dr. Leeper was born August 27, IKKi, in \'ir- 
ginia, and was the sou of William and Ellen 
Leeper. He spent his bO} liood years in his native 
State, and was seventeen years of age when he ac- 
companied his parents on their removal to Carroll 
County, this State. He gained his earl}- education 
in the district schools, and, later in life, having 
determined to follow the profession of a pli3'sician. 



he read medicine, and for one year practiced with 
Dr. Abbott at Massillon. 'J'lience he removed to 
Navarre, where he was engaged successfully for 
thir.t}' years, and was one of the most prominent 
physicians in the county. During his later years. 
Dr. Leeper came to the farm in this township, it 
being his intention to retire from active practice, 
but, nevertheless, was frequently called upon to 
prescribe for people who were ill. 

Our subject departed this life Jaiiuaiy 1, 18.S8. 
He was a man who was widely and favorably 
known in this county, and possessed many friends 
among the people. The work to which he gave 
his attention during the last j-ears of his active 
life was familiar to him, his youth having been 
spent upon a farm. He was a prominent member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and led a con- 
scientious Christian life. In his political relations, 
he was a stanch Republican, and was also well 
known as a local temperance lecturer, being a 
strong advocate of that worthy cause. The mar- 
riage of Dr. Leeper with Miss Sophia Meigs was 
solemnized July 10, 1837. She was born in jNIar- 
ietta, this State, May 13, 1817, and was the daugh- 
ter "of Solomon and Sarah (Hutchinson) Diekej-, 
natives respectively of Virginia and New England. 
Mrs. Leeper was given her christian name in honor 
of the wife of Gov. Meigs. She was orphaned by 
the death of her mother when two years of age, 
and when attaining her eighteenth year her father 
died. She was given an excellent education, and 
upon her marriage with our subject was well fitted 
to preside over tiie home of that worthy gentle- 
man. 

To Dr. and Mrs. Leeper was born a daughter, 
who died in infancy. They have an adopted son, 
George C, whom they reared from infancy. He 
is now a prominent citizen of Perry Township, 
and married Mary Mooke, b}' whom he became 
the father of four children: James L., Georgie 
M., Rex and Nellie. Mrs. Leeper holds a high po- 
sition in the esteem of the residents of thiscounty, 
and her host of warm friends hope that she ma}- 
be spared to them for many 3-cars. Like her hus- 
band, she is also a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, and endeavors in her everyday 
life to carry out the teachinijs of the Holy Writ. 



524 



PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 



At his death, Dr. Leepci- left a valuable estate, 
comprising one hundred and ninety acres, and 
which is one of the finest farms in the township, 
containing many substantial improvements, an 
attractive residence, and all the modern conven- 
iences in the way of farm buildings. His fame 
and popularity as a physician extended beyond 



the limits of the county, and his genial, cordial 
manneii* gained for him the friendship of all who 
were associated with him, whether in business 
or social life. He was self-made in the truest sense 
of that term, and we take pleasure in placing be- 
fore our readers a sketch of so worthy a gentle- 
man. 







3-®?-4BIH®>^=^^- 



Adams, John 23 

Adams, John Q 39 

Albaugh, J. W 503 

Allen, I. M 3-27 

Anderson, J." M 201 

Archer, C. E 444 

Aichinal, William 178 

Arnold, J. L 316 

Arthur, Chester A 99 

Ashenhurst, J. J 20S 



Baclitel, Henrj- U2 

Bader, George 4t)n 

Baer, Prof. H. C 1!)1 

Bailey, Amasa 202 

Balmat, Peter 384 

Barr, J. VV 143 

Bast. Matthew 426 

Bauffhman, D. H 484 

Baughman, S. H 203 

Bayliss,E. B 415 

Bayliss, James igg 

Beatty, G. S iM 

Beazel, J. S 292 

Becher, W. H., JI. D 403 

Becher, William 242 

Beck, J. F 321 

Belden, Hon. H. S 508 

Bell, Hon. Kobert 13;) 

Be.st,M.L 346 

Biechele, A. G 477 

Biechele, Joseph 473 

Biechele, K. A., M. D 482 

Bissonnette, J, B 387 

Bixler, J. S 446 

Bloomfleld, John 489 

Bockius, L. V 236 

Bordner, Haman ]>)8 

Bowman, Abram 128 



Bowman, Henry 255 

Bowman, N. K 401 

Bowman, Hon. .S. C .313 

Bowman, Samuel 232 

Braucher, W. H 324 

Breed, W. F 337 

Brosius, H 225 

Brown, G. S 2C8 

Brown, Rev. G. W 470 

Buchanan. James 75 

Bucher, J. R iji 

Bucher, M. VV no 

Buckius, W. H 363 

Burton, J. P 213 



Cameron, J. W 271 

Campbell, A., M. D 186 

Campbell, James 4.56 

Campbell. J. M 432 

Carpenter, F. H 457 

Castleman, Capt. William. ..127 

Cavnah, H. A 463 

Christiansen, Rev. C 262 

Clark, J. M 245 

Clay, Moses 466 

Claymen, Adam 125 

Cleveland, S. Grover 103 

Clutz, Josiah 227 

Coates, A. W 443 

Cobaugh, Daniel 237 

Conkeil, J, H 200 

Correll, A. B 513 

Correll, Josiah 479 

Correll, S. L 460 

Culler, O. B 232 



Danner, John 161 

Deckard, John 1*4 

Deckard, Reuben 440 



Deckerd, Henry 483 

Dick, Joseph 277 

Diebold, Charles 355 

Dillon, Thomas 246 

Doll, Benjamin 373 

Dougherty, J. E., M. D 1.36 

Dimiont , J. J. 1, 506 

Dumoulin, J. H 419 

Dwyer.J. H ''.'m 



Eby, S. P 37g 

Eckroad , Jacob 413 

Edmonds, Rev. E. P 43] 

Elbe], Gustavus 376 

Erb, David 3-24 

Ertle, Mathias 420 

Eschliman, C 516 

Eschliman, Jonas 244 

Eschliman, Samuel 425 

Everhard, Mrs. C. Mc C 488 

Everhard, Philip ]85 

Everhart, Peter 364 

Excell, M. B 381 



'Fasnacht, Abraham 375 

Faust, C. VV 261 

Fawcett, J. P ii6 

Field, Paul 166 

Fillmore, Millard 67 

Folk, Joseph ,3,34 

Foltz, H. S 315 

Fraunfelter, James, M. D ..181 

Frazer, C R 478 

Frease, Hon. Joseph 212 

Freeman, John 427 

Freeman, Oren 380 

QFreiV Prof. Victor 414 

Fulton, Benjamin 418 



Garfield, .Tames A 95 

Gerber, Christian 331 

Gill, John 283 

«i".Mi«^hei ::;:;::::;::5o,, 

Gise, Jacob =ji 

Gise, L. VV ]jg 

Goodman, VV. W. . \^^ 

«°"'d.A.p .';.'.7.;;.'."355 

Graber, P. D jjg^; 

Grant, Ulysses S g^ 

Grant, W. C .131 

Grapewine, Joseph . ib7 

Gribble, Peter 510 

Grimm, Rev. J. A .352 

Groir, VV. E ......174 

Grovemiller, Mathias 323 

Gue?t, Washington m 



Hammer, John 1.^4 

Hammersmith , C. V 303 

Hanna.A.R '3.J4 

Harpster, Re v. J. H 45fP 

Harrison, Benjamin 107 

Harrison, William Henry 5! 

Harsh. Hon. George 201 

Hartzell, J. VV ^qo 

Hawk, Jacob 469 

Hayes, Rutherford B 91 

Heggem, CO 468 

Hemperly David 222 

Henninger, Isaac 348 

Henrich, Jacob 517 

Hensel, Peter 197 

Horing, E. L 917 

Hershey, J. C 498 

Hershey, William 435 

Hess. J. F 811 

Hess, Leonard 437 

Hogan, M, J 499 



INDEX. 



Holben, Jonathan 241 

Holl.O. W 28fi 

Holl, Reuben 436 

Holtz, M.J 338 

Holzbach, Andrew 286 

Hoover, J. J 372 

Hornberger, Emanuel, Sr — 337 

Houtz, Henry 470 

Howells, Hon. Anthony 513 

Huber.C'apt. Henry 145 

Hudson, J. F.,M. D 322 

Hurford. Alexander 235 

Huth, Conrad S04 



Independent Publishing Com- 
pany, The 4!>t 



Jackson, Andrew 43 

Jackson, D 146 

Jacobs, Capt. John 215 

Jellerson, Thon^as 27 

Johnson, Andrew 83 

Johnson, Hon. E. N 357 

Johnson, Simon 2'J6 

Jones, Prof . E. A 520 

Justice, John 458 



Kagey, Jacob 38!) 

Kauffman, Isaac 397 

Keasey, Solomon 474 

Keehn, Jonathan 238 

Keith, S.T.,M.D 312 

Keller, F.J .521 

Keller, J. L 172 

Kerstetter, David , Sr 373 

Knapp, Capt. S. M 383 

Koons, L. A 358 

Krider, C. A 218 

Krider, Hon. Samuel 211 

Krisher, Philip 315 

Krott, William 154 

Kuebler, Kev. J. F 507 



Labbe, Martin 400 

Lash, L. R 3« 

Leberman, Kev. J. J 256 



Leeper, J. L., M. D. .... 

Leighter, G. W 

Lesh, Josiah 

Levers, David, Sr 

Lichtenwalter, William 

Lincoln, Abraham 

Linville, J. A 

Loichot, L. A 

Long, Rev. S. P 



Madison, James 31 

Mahon, Rev. T. F 122 

March, E. J., M. D 173 

Marchand, J. F., M. D 154 

Mase. Henry 353 

Mase, John 362 

Mase, Samuel 446 

McBride. Hon. John 132 

McCaughey , Robert 193 

McDowell, A. C 121 

McDowell, D. C 465 

McDowell, H. G 422 

Mellravy.D. L., M. D 138 

McLain, J. H 195 

McWhinney, John 394 

Meese, J. A 263 

Meyer, Andrew 335 

Meyer, Daniel 393 

Meyer, E.J 318 

Meyer, G. W 297 

Michener, John 231 

Miller, H. N 453 

Miller,Peter 148 

Miller, R. A 163 

Miller, W. L 247 

Mobley, John .502 

Moffitt, William 273 

Monroe, James 86 

Morgan. T. R. , Sr 475 

Moses, H.'S 491 

Muskopf, J. W 37li 

Myers, E.G., M. D 494 

Myers, W. G 519 



Newsletter, W. M... 

Niesz, J. F 

Niesz, William 

Noble, Thomas , 

Nofsinger, John 

Noftsinger, Samuel. 



Oberlin, Samuel, 
Ohliger, L. B 



Oberlin, C. E. . . 
Oberlin, J. L.... 
Oberlin, Joseph. 



Paar, Daniel 285 

Painter, C. D.. M. D 327 

Painter, J. W 495 

Parks, J. C 307 

Penberthy, J. P., M. D 360 

Phelps, W.H 274 

Pherson , Robert 392 

Phillip.9, George 157 

Pierce, Franklin 71 

Piero, Hon. W. J 156 

Pinn, E. A 251 

Polk, James K .59 

Pollock, John 425 

Pontius, Andrew 438 

Pontius, J. W 434 

-Pontius, John 276 

'Poorman, John 464 

Porter, R. R 223 

Portmann. A. F 251 

Poyser.J. K 132 

Putman, J. C. F 504 



Reay, R. M 

Reed, J. A 

Reinoehl, Jacob 

Reinoehl,J. W 

Reinoehl, Samuel. . 

Rex, George 

Rhodes, David 

Ricks, \V. F 

Roach, J. A..M. D.. 
Robertson, James. . 
Rodocker, Adam. . . 

Roepper, C. W 

Rogers, David 

Roth, J. F 

Roush, Reuben 

Rudy, Jacob 

Russell, A. A 

Russell, G. L 

Russell, J. K 

Russell, T.H 



Saxton, J. A 

Schaefer, Louis.. 
Schafer, Martin.. 
Schario, W. F. . . . 
Schlagel,J. K. ... 
Schlichter, G. N. 



Schott, Joseph 232 

Schreffler, Thomas 202 

Schuckers, J. M 512 

Schweitzer, Conrad 2.57 

Sefton, W. E 421 

Senger, Martin ;'6i; 

Shafer, H. H., M. D 147 

Shafer, J. C 126 

ShafTer, William 176 

Sheafer, Philip 305 

Shepley, F. R 451 

Shields, R. S 135 

Shilling, J. B 297 

Shoemaker, Z. T 492 

Siffert, Rev. W. 443 

Slentz, A. 478 

Slusser, Lewis, M. D 407 

Sluts, Mahlon 331 

Slutts, R. C 284 

Smith, D.S 124 

Smith, David 298 

Smith, J. B 326 

Smith, J. H 501 

Smith, John 328 

Smith, Joseph 224 

Smith, L. 1 272 

Smith, Samuel 372 

Snively, Jacob 173 

Snyder, C. F 361 

Snyder, D. J 493 

Snyder, G. M 462 

Snyder. J. F 382 

Snyder, Ruben 417 

Sonnhalter, Philip 410 

Spangler, G. H 433 

Spon.seller. Abraham 428 

Sponseller, David 391 

Sprankel, E. J 371 

Stansberger, George 123 

Stansbury, W. W 137 

Steele, J. L 153 

Stillwell, Hon. J. M 308 

Stoner, Henry 363 

Stover, George 411 

Stover, William 492 

Stump, Levi 397 

Suter, James 515 



63 



399 



Taylor, Zachary . . 
Thomas, Rev. J. M. 
Tressel, J. H., M.D 

Trubey, J. M 

Trump, G. W 

Trump, J. J 

Tyler, John 



Uphani, C. C 



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